Lebanon Using Diplomacy to Counter Israel in Maritime Dispute

Lebanese President Michel Aoun said on Thursday that Beirut was using “diplomatic means” to counter Israel’s stance regarding an offshore energy block in disputed territory on the countries’ maritime border.

On Wednesday, Israel described as “very provocative” Lebanon’s first offshore oil and gas exploration tender and said it would be a mistake for international firms to participate.

Lebanese Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri said that his country had received several “threatening messages” from Israel in recent days.

Hezbollah has also weighed in on the issue, with a statement that it would “decisively confront any assault on our oil and gas rights, and protect (Lebanon’s) wealth.”