Speaking to the local channel LBCI, the spokesperson for the US State Department revealed US concerns over the violations of the Blue Line and their impact on stability and security in Lebanon and Israel. The spokesperson called on all parties involved to refrain from engaging in provocative actions that could endanger the security situation. The US also urged Lebanon to seek resolution through the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to address these violations. Furthermore, they emphasized the need to ensure UNIFIL’s freedom of movement and access to key areas of interest along the Blue Line to prevent any escalation.
This statement comes amid escalating tensions in southern Lebanon, where Israel’s annexation of the town of Ghajar is contested. Israel has constructed a fence north of the town, which the Lebanese authorities view as a violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The Lebanese authorities have demanded the immediate and unconditional withdrawal from all occupied Lebanese territories.
Regarding the visit of US envoy Amos Hochstein to Israel, the US spokesperson declined to provide details on private diplomatic talks when asked if the discussions included the Lebanese issue.
Of note, Hochstein, the US envoy who sponsored the maritime border agreement between Lebanon and Israel in October 2022, arrived in Israel on Tuesday, July 11, to discuss various matters with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, including the normalization between Riyadh and Tel Aviv, as well as the recent tensions along the Lebanese-Israeli border, as reported by Israeli media.
On Wednesday, July 12, three Hezbollah members were injured by Israeli gunfire at the border, according to a security source in southern Lebanon.
Read more
