President Michel Aoun received from Deputy Speaker Elias Bou Saab the version he obtained from the American mediator Amos Hochstein regarding the issue of maritime boundary delineation between Lebanon and Israel. After the meeting, Bou Saab stated: "This delineation includes significant economic interests, and Lebanon has achieved this today in a form that is under study, and it will conduct the necessary consultations, which meet Lebanon’s demands." He noted that "contrary to what is being rumored, Lebanon has gained its legitimate demands, and the other side received notes they requested. The atmosphere is positive, and we have reached a solution that satisfies both parties."
He confirmed that "the version is now in the hands of the President, and from now until the coming hours, the responses will be announced. Today will include surprises, and everyone is waiting for what will come from Lebanon," adding that "regardless of the form, this agreement will ensure economic stability in the region."
Bou Saab indicated that "Lebanon will obtain all its rights from the Qana field, and the Israelis can receive their compensations from Total, not from Lebanon. Lebanon previously signed an agreement with Total in 2017." He emphasized that "there will be no sharing of gas or resources between Lebanon and Israel concerning the Qana field, and Lebanon will obtain all its rights, with all the notes we sent taken into consideration."
He concluded: "President Aoun began his term by issuing oil decrees, and we hope he concludes his term with the achievement of a maritime boundary agreement, and President Aoun will conduct necessary consultations to discuss the final version of the agreement."
