Rocket science is considered a highly complex science but that is nothing compared to the complexity of Lebanese politics.
Cradle of the Phoenician city-states, religious diverse, culturally majestic, commercial pioneers, multilingual, conflict-targeted but permanently rebuilding, small country with a worldwide powerful diaspora, are just some of many unique characteristics of the Mediterranean country of the Cedars.
While on paper, Lebanon has no diplomatic relations with Israel and while Israel’s Iranian-backed archenemy Hezbollah resides in Lebanon, geopolitics of energy proves once again to reign above any other political agenda.
During the past week, after months and months of conflict-risky, threats-included, tumultuous negotiations, President Michel Aoun of Lebanon and Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid finally reached an agreement to end a long time dispute over their maritime border, opening the door to offshore energy exploration in the Mediterranean Sea.
The disputed territory includes the Karish oil and gas field and a region known as the Qanaa prospect, which are expected to fall into Lebanese and Israeli waters respectively under the deal.
Both sides announced plans to start exploration “immediately” and claimed to be content with the final deal. While this is no peace treaty it’s still a pretty “civilized” deal, all things considered.
Historically, geopolitics of energy have been common causes for wars(casus belli), but in this particular case it has opened a new unforeseen negotiation table in a politically volatile region.
Although perhaps I might be guilty of wishful thinking and idealist humanism, my hope for peace and human prosperity will always stand above ideological conflicts. With no political inclination and with absolutely no encouragement to bigger government, I say KUDOS to Lebanon and Israel for achieving this deal.