A contact in Beirut, after visiting local cafes, shared a similar sentiment, noting that peace with Israel has become a central topic of discussion among the public, in parliament and in government offices.
Bin Salman, despite pausing normalization efforts with Israel, appears to view Lebanon as a strategic vantage point ahead of potential negotiations with Jerusalem. The U.S. and France are both involved in mediation efforts between Israel and Lebanon, facilitating indirect talks where Israeli and Lebanese officers meet in separate rooms under American mediation.
There is little significant opposition to expanding relations with Israel. The main question is timing — whether to move forward in the near future or wait until Israeli Air Force overflights in Lebanese airspace cease. While Aoun quietly supports improving ties with Israel, he insists it should not be labeled as “normalization.”
In contrast, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is known for his hardline stance against Israel and staunchly opposes any agreement.
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
(Photo: AFP PHOTO / Syria’s Transitional Government)
As long as Saudi Arabia refrains from making a decisive move and Hezbollah continues issuing threats, Lebanon is unlikely to respond to Israel’s proposal for a full cessation of hostilities — an arrangement that could eventually lead to peace.
At the same time, the Lebanese army is intensifying its efforts against Hezbollah in the south. In recent days, 4,500 young Lebanese citizens have enlisted in the military.
A senior official in Lebanon’s new government told me that over 70% of Lebanese citizens support an “open agreement” with Israel — one that would facilitate relations, particularly in trade. Unfortunately, Israel has yet to engage in serious discussions on this matter with its American and French counterparts. There is much to talk about.
