Herzog expresses hope for peace, direct travel between Israel, Lebanon

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has expressed optimism about future peace with Lebanon, saying he hopes Israelis will one day be able to travel freely to Beirut, according to the Times of Israel. 

Speaking to foreign diplomats, including representatives from the UAE and Bahrain, Herzog said: “Israel is eager to work with all of you to help shape a Middle East in which all of our sons and daughters can inherit opportunity instead of fear,” adding, “That they inherit the promises of tomorrow, and not the conflicts of yesterday."

He also shared a personal vision he recently conveyed to schoolchildren, saying: “my dream is to get into a car and drive straight to Beirut, to visit that beautiful city, to befriend the good people of Lebanon, those who share a prayer with us for a better future.”

Herzog further addressed ongoing diplomatic efforts, stating: “I salute the teams who will hopefully gather tomorrow in Washington, DC, and wish them great success in pursuing peace between Israel and Lebanon. But in order to reach that point, Israel must ensure the safety of its borders.”

The remarks come ahead of a second round of direct talks between Israel and Lebanon scheduled to take place in Washington, DC, which will also include Israeli Ambassador to the United States Mike Huckabee.

By Sabina Mammadli