The United Kingdom has stepped up diplomatic efforts to address Israel’s continued occupation of several positions in southern Lebanon, proposing the installation of monitoring towers as a confidence-building measure to facilitate a withdrawal, Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper reported. 

According to a senior political source, the British government has engaged in discussions with Lebanese officials, offering to establish surveillance towers similar to those it previously helped install along Lebanon’s eastern border with Syria. These towers, aimed at curbing smuggling and unauthorized crossings, have been instrumental in strengthening border control. London now suggests replicating this model in the Israeli-occupied areas, with the towers operated jointly by UNIFIL and the Lebanese Army under international supervision.

The proposal seeks to address Israel’s security concerns, which it has cited as justification for maintaining control over these sites despite a ceasefire. Israel argues that withdrawal without sufficient safeguards could expose its northern settlements to security threats. The UK initiative, however, aims to provide a structured monitoring mechanism that would reassure Israel while reinforcing the authority of the Lebanese state.

Lebanon has responded positively to the British offer, viewing it as a practical solution that could pave the way for an Israeli withdrawal and strengthen the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Officials argue that Israel’s continued presence in these positions is unnecessary, particularly given its advanced radar capabilities, which allow it to monitor activities far beyond Lebanon’s borders.

The success of the UK initiative will depend on Israel’s response and whether it is willing to engage with this diplomatic effort. If accepted, the plan could mark a significant step toward securing a lasting ceasefire and reinforcing Lebanon’s sovereignty over its territory.