First direct contact in over three decades
Lebanon and Israel have held their first diplomatic talks in more than 30 years, in a rare meeting aimed at reducing tensions and addressing ongoing conflict involving Hezbollah.
The Lebanon-Israel talks took place in Washington, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acting as mediator, according to US officials.
Focus on Hezbollah and security issues
US officials said both sides agreed to launch direct negotiations at a time and place to be determined, with a focus on reducing the influence of Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group operating in Lebanon.
Israel stated it wants to disarm all non-state armed groups, referring directly to Hezbollah.
Lebanon, meanwhile, called for a ceasefire and urgent measures to address the country’s humanitarian crisis.
Washington mediation and political reactions
Marco Rubio described the meeting as a “historic opportunity” and said the process would take time but was worth pursuing.
A US State Department statement confirmed that Israel reaffirmed its right to self-defence, while Lebanon stressed the need for a ceasefire and stability in the south of the country.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed hope that the talks between Israel and Lebanon would mark “the beginning of the end of suffering” for civilians, particularly in southern Lebanon.
Ongoing conflict and casualties
The talks come amid continued violence, with more than 2,000 people reportedly killed since Israeli military operations began in Lebanon in March.
At the same time, Hezbollah claimed multiple attacks on Israeli forces, while drone and rocket alarms were reported across northern Israel.
Hezbollah stance remains firm
Hezbollah officials have rejected any agreement reached without their participation, saying the group is not bound by the Washington discussions.
The organisation remains a powerful political and military force in Lebanon, holding significant influence in the country’s south and parts of Beirut.
Wider regional tensions
The Lebanon-Israel talks are taking place against the backdrop of broader regional instability involving Iran, Israel, and allied armed groups across the Middle East.
US officials said the talks had been planned before parallel diplomatic contacts involving Iran were confirmed.
Source: CNA
Also read: Iran used Chinese surveillance satellite to target US bases, FT reports
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