Why it matters:
Amid a protest held in Beirut by families of Lebanese prisoners demanding clarification of the fate of their relatives held by Israel, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s announcement that the return of the prisoners “represents a priority in the negotiations” carries particular significance. His confirmation that contacts are ongoing for their release comes at a time when families continue to mobilize publicly to keep the issue alive and press for official action. The statement is especially important given that, despite the ceasefire, Israel continues to carry out attacks on Lebanon, making any step toward advancing this humanitarian file highly consequential.
The big picture:
The Lebanese prisoners were taken prisoner during the 2024 war between Israel and Lebanon. Under the ceasefire agreement signed in November last year, Israel was supposed to fully withdraw from Lebanese territory by February 18, 2025; however, after missing a January deadline, it has maintained troops at five locations it considers strategic. Meanwhile, the exact number of Lebanese prisoners held in Israeli detention remains unknown.
Go deeper:
Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Demands Full Halt to Israeli Aggression
F.abedi - Mojtaba Darabi
