Israel-lebanese Army Talks Based on Common Desire to Keep Syria out

A common desire to keep Syria out of southern Lebanon is the reason for the talks that Israeli officers have been having with the officers of the Arab Lebanese Army, the group that has been fighting together with the Palestine Liberation Organization against Lebanese Christians.

This was the explanation given by sources in Jerusalem last night after it was revealed earlier in the day that the meetings had been held at Rosh Hanikra, the high cliff overlooking the Mediterranean at the Israeli-Lebanese border. The last meeting was held on the Israeli side at the Panoramic View Restaurant familiar to Israeli and foreign tourists who visit the area.

The Jerusalem sources point out that it is Israeli policy which has permitted the Arab Lebanese Army to be in south Lebanon since Israel has announced it would not allow Syria to move into the region. This has become the main guarantee of safety for PLO and Moslem leftists who have moved into southern Lebanon after fleeing from the Syrian army.

Israel says the initiative for the talks came from the Arab Lebanese Army which asked the United Nations to arrange them. The Israelis stress that the talks are directly between the two parties and the UN officers take no part in them.

The two sides discussed problems about the border, including those concerning the crossing into Israel of southern Lebanese villagers seeking medical and other aid. They reportedly agreed that these people will not be interfered with and that the Arab terrorists will not be allowed near the border.

Israeli officials stress that the meetings have no political significance and are regarded as a continuation of the meetings that Israeli officers have long had with Lebanese army officers. The Arab Lebanese Army is made up of Moslem soldier led by Lt. Ahmed E Khatib who broke away from the regular Lebanese armed forces which is headed by a Christian general.