Issa says Israel will withdraw from Lebanon 'sooner or later'

Washington – U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa has expressed confidence that an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon is inevitable, stating it "will happen sooner or later, but not tomorrow." Ambassador Issa, who is participating in the Lebanon-Israel talks in Washington, conveyed a positive outlook on the negotiations.

Speaking to Al-Jadeed TV in Arabic, Issa described the atmosphere surrounding the talks as "positive." He indicated that progress is being made, with plans to select "pilot zones" and a potential "declaration of intent" to be announced during the following day's meeting.

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The Israeli withdrawal will happen sooner or later, but not tomorrow.

The ambassador's remarks suggest a cautious but hopeful trajectory for the diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the long-standing conflict and border disputes between Lebanon and Israel. While emphasizing that the withdrawal will not be immediate, his comments signal a commitment from the mediating parties to move forward with a phased approach.

The ongoing talks in Washington are crucial for de-escalating tensions and establishing a framework for future relations between the two countries. The selection of pilot zones and a declaration of intent would represent significant diplomatic steps toward achieving a lasting resolution.

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The atmosphere is positive, the pilot zones will be selected, and there will be a declaration of intent in tomorrow's meeting.