Israel says 'historic' sea border deal struck with Lebanon

Israel's prime minister said on Tuesday that the country has reached an historic agreement with neighbouring Lebanon over their shared maritime border after months of US-brokered negotiations. At stake are rights over exploiting undersea natural gas reserves in areas of the eastern Mediterranean that the two countries which do not have diplomatic relations claim.

Premier Yair Lapid called the deal an historic achievement that will strengthen Israel's security, inject billions into Israel's economy, and ensure the stability of the northern border. The agreement is expected to enable additional natural gas production in the Mediterranean. Lebanon hopes gas exploration will help lift its country out of its spiralling economic crisis.