What’s Next for Israel and Lebanon? Trump Announces Talks Set for Thursday
Upcoming Talks Between Israel and Lebanon
Washington: President Donald Trump has announced that discussions between Israel and Lebanon are scheduled for Thursday.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed hopes for progress, stating, "It's been a long time since the two leaders have communicated, approximately 34 years. This meeting will take place tomorrow."
On Tuesday, representatives from Israel and Lebanon convened in Washington, where Israel emphasized the need for Hezbollah's disarmament, while Lebanon advocated for a ceasefire and measures to alleviate the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran, as reported by the US State Department.
The statement confirmed that all parties agreed to initiate direct negotiations at a mutually acceptable time and location.
This meeting represents the first significant high-level interaction between Israel and Lebanon since 1993.
Earlier, the US clarified that any potential ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is not included in its discussions with Iran, despite increasing diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions along Israel's northern border.
A senior official from the administration stated that the US had "not requested" a truce in Lebanon, clarifying that it is "not part of the peace talks with Iran." However, the official noted that President Trump would support the cessation of hostilities in Lebanon as part of a broader peace agreement.
These comments followed a day of unprecedented direct discussions between Israel and Lebanon, facilitated by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, marking the first such engagement in years.
US officials characterized these discussions as a significant step towards de-escalating tensions and potentially paving the way for a more comprehensive agreement.
"The United States aims for a lasting peace but did not insist on an immediate ceasefire," another senior official remarked, emphasizing Washington's measured approach to the conflict.
The current focus remains on fostering confidence-building measures between both nations.
"The US is dedicated to establishing trust between the two governments to create an environment conducive to a peace deal, ensuring that any future agreements are sustainable," the official added. "Both parties need to generate political momentum."
This renewed diplomatic initiative coincides with the US's ongoing efforts to maintain a fragile truce with Iran, as regional hotspots like Lebanon are viewed as potential disruptors if not managed carefully.