Tensions are mounting regarding the northern portion of the village of Rajar, situated on the border between Israel, Lebanon on the northern Golan Heights. Due to mounting American pressure, the portion of the village under Israeli control may be turned over to Lebanon.

America continues to exert pressure on Israel to retreat from Har Dov as well as the northern portion of the village, to the so-called Blue Line, the Israeli Lebanese border. America views this as part of Israel’s compliance with the Second Lebanon War agreement, UN Resolution 1701.

After Hizbullah’s defeat in the elections, America stepped-up the pressure on Israel, possibly viewing this as an opportunity to strengthen the Lebanese government. It appears former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert gave his word that in the event Hizbullah loses in the election, Israel would leave the area. The White House is now calling on Israel to make good on that promise.

Opponents point out the concerns due in no small part to the abysmal performance of the UNIFIL border forces and fears of a renewed conflict with Hizbullah.

Village leaders also oppose the move, stating they will become refugees in Lebanon without a home.

Rajar came under Israeli control in the June 1967 Six Day War. In 1981, villagers received Israeli identity cards. Most villagers appear pleased with this situation and adamantly oppose being placed under Lebanese control. 

Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman visited the village on Wednesday, meeting with senior leaders, hoping to formulate a position on the controversial issue.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)