Lebanese people want Israel ties, stronger government to oust Hezbollah, AMCD head says
Hajjar said that Israel and Lebanon had much to offer each other’s citizens, arguing that the misapplication of Lebanon’s 1955 anti-boycott law had created unnecessary barriers.
Lebanese citizens desire full diplomatic relations with Israel and to reap the economic advantages of tourism and trade, according to John Hajjar, head of the American Mideast Coalition for Democracy. However, the country remains trapped by Hezbollah and a government unwilling to confront the Iran-backed group. Hajjar, who previously visited Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa, recalled stories from his Lebanese grandparents about Jewish tourists visiting the Lebanese mountains for relaxation when his grandmother was young.
He believes that Israel and Lebanon would benefit greatly from each other's citizens, but the misuse of Lebanon's 1955 anti-boycott law has restricted engagement between the nations. This law, initially intended to prevent trade and financial dealings with Israel, now hinders even the most basic forms of communication, benefiting Hezbollah and Hamas.
The Lebanese people are seeking peace, economic growth, and improved infrastructure, but the current government is seen as incapable of achieving these goals. Hajjar urges Washington to use its influence with Lebanon to repeal the boycott law, allowing Lebanese religious groups to visit holy sites in Jerusalem. He also calls for sanctions on Lebanese judiciary members involved in prosecuting violations of the law.
The Lebanese diaspora in the United States empathizes with Israel due to their shared experiences with persecution, terrorism, and sectarian violence.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
