Israel maintains ‘very high’ alert ahead of direct talks with Lebanon

Report by Amal Shehadeh, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian 

Ahead of the first direct negotiation session between Lebanon and Israel in Washington this week, a clearer picture of the negotiation process is emerging in Tel Aviv.

The first track is diplomatic and linked to extending the ceasefire period and preparing for a phase that could eventually lead to an agreement between the two countries.

The second track is technical and centers on discussions over maps related to the border between the two countries, as well as the possibility of establishing what Israeli officials described as a security separation agreement. 

This would reportedly be based on the formation of joint Lebanese-Israeli working groups tasked with addressing both the dismantling of Hezbollah’s weapons and border issues.

The reports about what Israel seeks from the negotiations come as operations continue in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah drones are reportedly targeting soldiers, military commanders, and security agencies, while a high level of alert remains in place in northern Israel.

Pending the outcome of the Washington talks, the Israeli military announced it is maintaining a “very high” level of readiness, both in terms of defense systems and offensive preparations, stressing that it is prepared for all scenarios, including a war on multiple fronts.