## Israel and Lebanon Reach Maritime Border Agreement **Breaking News** Israel and Lebanon have reached a historic maritime border agreement that will allow both countries to explore and develop natural gas resources in the disputed waters of the Mediterranean Sea. **Background** The maritime border dispute between Israel and Lebanon has been ongoing for decades, and tensions have escalated in recent years as both countries have sought to exploit the potential natural gas reserves in the area. The agreement will end the dispute and pave the way for economic cooperation between the two countries. **Terms of the Agreement** The agreement was brokered by the United States and will see Lebanon gain control of approximately 860 square kilometers of disputed waters, while Israel will retain control of the remaining 140 square kilometers. Both countries will have the right to develop natural gas reserves in their respective areas, and they will share the revenues from the Karish field, which lies on the border between the two countries. **Significance** The maritime border agreement is a major diplomatic breakthrough and has the potential to improve relations between Israel and Lebanon. It will also boost the economies of both countries and help to ensure the stability of the region. **Reactions** The agreement has been welcomed by both Israel and Lebanon, as well as by the United States. Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid called it a "historic agreement" that will "strengthen regional stability." Lebanese President Michel Aoun said that the agreement will "open up new horizons for Lebanon." The United States hailed the agreement as a "victory for diplomacy" and said that it will "promote peace and stability in the region." **Next Steps** The agreement will now be submitted to the parliaments of both Israel and Lebanon for approval. Once approved, it will be implemented and the two countries will begin to explore and develop the natural gas resources in their respective areas. **Sources:** * [BBC News](https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-63227464) * [The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/27/world/middleeast/israel-lebanon-maritime-border-agreement.html) * [The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/oct/27/israel-and-lebanon-agree-us-brokered-maritime-border-deal)
