Israel releases four more detainees to Lebanon through Red Cross

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has facilitated the release of four additional detainees captured by Israeli troops in southern Lebanon, according to security sources. These detainees, who are Lebanese and Syrian nationals, are now in Lebanese custody in Tyre, awaiting medical examinations and questioning by the Lebanese army's intelligence services.

The release follows a previous handover of one detainee, Malek Ghazi, on Thursday, which Israel characterized as a "gesture of goodwill" amid ongoing stalled direct negotiations.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed his appreciation for the United States' role in brokering the deal. The handover serves to validate the Lebanese position and underscores the importance of fulfilling the steps outlined in the tripartite framework, according to the Lebanese presidency. This move signifies a renewed diplomatic effort between Israel and Lebanon, as Washington endeavors to facilitate further dialogue preceding talks in Rome.

The Israeli government announced on Thursday that five Lebanese civilians detained in areas under Israeli control in southern Lebanon would be released following their interrogation. These individuals were found to be civilians, with no affiliation to terrorist organizations and no history of terrorism-related activities. The Israeli office stated that there were no grounds to continue holding them in captivity.

The ICRC highlighted that numerous families in Lebanon are still seeking information regarding the whereabouts of loved ones who may be detained, deceased, or otherwise unaccounted for in the conflict. The organization reiterated the necessity of obtaining information on conflict-related detainees and being granted access to them. Since 2023, over 30 individuals are believed to have been abducted by Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, though the ICRC has been unable to establish contact with them.