Lebanon-Israel Framework Talks Raise Fears of Israeli Oversight

Lebanon and Israel are negotiating a framework agreement under U.S. mediation that would address border delimitation, security cooperation, and economic issues. The Lebanese daily Al Akhbar warned that the current shape of the talks could place Lebanon under political, economic and security tutelage by Israel, describing the risk that "Lebanon could become a form of Israeli colony."

Simultaneously, former ambassador Simon Karam, who chairs the Lebanese delegation, has reportedly told officials he is considering leaving his post. No formal resignation has been announced, but the speculation reflects internal tensions over the mandate, coordination among Lebanese institutions and the ability to maintain a coherent stance toward Israel and the American mediators.