Syria to Return Shebaa to Lebanon Once it Signs Peace With Israel
U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon Michael Williams said that Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem personally told him that Syria considers the Shebaa Farms Lebanese territory, meaning Syria would turn the farms over to Lebanon within days once it signs a peace accord with Israel.
Williams expressed his admiration of Lebanese institutions mainly the ministries of the interior and defense as well as the Lebanese military on June 7 [parliamentary election day] the daily An-Nahar on Saturday, adding, "The formation of the Constitutional Council prior to the elections was also good."
The U.N. Special Coordinator said: "I routinely speak to Hizbullah and they have informed me of their stance regarding various international resolutions. Discussions are healthy and strong and I am not at all surprised to see criticism made by ministers from time to time from Hizbullah or any other party. This is very normal and healthy."
Williams is scheduled to review and discuss the implementation of UNSC resolution 1701 at the United Nations Security Council on July 7.
Regarding Hizbullah arms Williams said that what the Lebanese decide [on the subject] is important saying, "Historical experiences reveal that such issues are better solved within a national political framework only."
As per the Special Tribunal for Lebanon [STL], Williams explained, "there can be no trial without a prisoner, and no prisoner without a list of charges. I don”t know what will happen with the STL because the investigation is confidential, if they need more time so be it, this better than failing."