Syria is reportedly considering conceding sovereignty of its controversial 'Shaba Farms' region to Lebanon, a move that would result in Israel being asked to withdraw from the region which it now occupies.
Currently, the United Nations maintains that the area is Syrian territory, and that its status will be decided in future negotiations regarding the occupied Golan Heights.
Israel's refusal to withdraw from the region if it is designated Lebanese territory would constitute continued occupation of Lebanon, which it currently does not occupy, and subsequent action against it by Hizbullah.
The group currently has forces deployed along the southern Lebanese border with Israel.
The Shaba Farms, known in Israel as the Har Dov region, has been at the center of controversy since Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon in May 2000.
According to Haaretz, the move is believed to be an attempt by Syria to ease political pressure on it.
