The story: For the first time in years, a senior Hezbollah official has publicly visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE). On the surface, the rare trip is focused on the release of Lebanese detainees. However, there are speculations that wider political issues are on the agenda—including Emirati mediation between Hezbollah and Israel. The spotlight is also on a claimed Syrian role in UAE dealings with the Lebanese movement. Ultimately, the visit could be an initial step towards Gulf Arab normalization with Hezbollah.

The coverage: Following mediation efforts between Emirati and Lebanese security officials, multiple detainees from Lebanon were freed in 2023. However, several pardoned convicts reportedly remained behind bars in...