Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, in an exclusive interview with the renowned French newspaper "Le Figaro," conveyed his openness to considering recognition and the establishment of relations with Israel as part of broader negotiations with the Arab League. In this interview, Mikati articulated the sentiments and proposals that carry significant implications for the intricate Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape.
Mikati harkened back to a pivotal moment in 2002, recalling, "A peace initiative was proposed to Israel in Beirut in 2002 by all the Arab countries. If negotiations are opened on this basis by the League - we will be ready to discuss it while we already have a cease-fire agreement with Israel." This statement emphasizes his commitment to exploring diplomatic avenues built on the historical foundation established by the Arab League. Importantly, it underscores Lebanon's preparedness for such discussions, with the backdrop of an existing ceasefire agreement with Israel. The Prime Minister's pragmatic perspective became evident as he stressed, "I am a pragmatic person and we need peace, stability, and growth in the region. I will be ready to discuss peace initiatives that will ensure prosperity for Lebanon and preserve our legitimate affairs and rights, and while respecting UN resolutions."
#Lebanon arrested Muslim Shia citizen Ali Attieh for posting a video favoring #Israel over Arab countries. Free speech?
ā Hussain Abdul-Hussain (@hahussain) September 18, 2023
Next time @AymanM, @MSNBC, @nytimes tell you that Abraham Accords for Arab Israeli peace represent governments but not Arab people, show them this video. https://t.co/xwiWx8r0CJ
Furthermore, Mikati revealed the need for United Nations assistance in clearly defining Lebanon's land border with Israel, akin to the successful delineation of maritime boundaries. This request carries significant weight in light of recent developments, including Saudi Prince Bin Salman's response to rumors concerning the suspension of normalization talks with Israel. Bin Salman was unequivocal in stating, "The talks are good, and we are getting closer every day. This is the first time it's serious. We'll see how it goes." His words emphasized the earnestness of the negotiations and the commitment to honoring past agreements related to the Palestinian issue. He also clarified that the dialogue with Israel would continue regardless of the composition of the Israeli government, expressing a pragmatic approach to diplomacy.
Simultaneously, "Middle East Eye" reported a noteworthy development involving the Turkish President and the Israeli Prime Minister. During their meeting, President Erdogan declared Turkey's support for the normalization of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Erdogan stated, "Ankara supports normalization because it will contribute to reducing tensions in the region." In a notable gesture of diplomacy, President Erdogan extended a formal invitation to Prime Minister Netanyahu, saying, "I invite you to visit Turkey, where we can discuss, among other things, the potential for a mutual visit to Israel."
Islamic Republic of Iran sets up airport in Lebanon to attack Israel - https://t.co/pHkIjCm3I4
ā Robert Spencer (@jihadwatchRS) September 15, 2023
In another intriguing twist, reports from the United States suggest that American officials have proposed a groundbreaking idea for the establishment of a defense alliance between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, akin to existing pacts with Japan and South Korea. The proposal seeks to incentivize Saudi Arabia to solidify its normalization agreement with Israel.
