Conclusive Results on Maritime Border Demarcation 'Within Weeks'

by Naharnet Newsdesk 10 February 2022, 11:27

Lebanon is expecting decisive results "within weeks" concerning the maritime border demarcation between Lebanon and Israel, an informed Lebanese source said.

The source told Asharq al-Awsat newspaper, in remarks published Thursday, that the ambiance is "very positive" and conclusive results are expected to be reached "within weeks."

The source explained that while "serious and tangible ideas" are currently being exchanged, there is hope for an agreement to be reached by "two months at the latest."

Although nothing is final yet, there is a "clarity" in Lebanon's position "bringing us closer to reaching our rights", the source added.

U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein had arrived in Lebanon on Tuesday to revive talks between Lebanon and Israel over a maritime border dispute that is holding up oil and gas explorations.

He met Wednesday with President Michel Aoun, Prime Minister Najib Miqati and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.

"I think that we’re at the moment of narrowing gaps towards a deal," Hochstein said in an interview, adding that "there’s no later anymore. This is the later. This is the last minute."

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