Diplomatic push: Lebanon and Israel prepare for direct talks

ALBAWABA - Diplomatic efforts are underway to arrange direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, with discussions expected to focus on disarming Hezbollah and exploring a framework for future relations between the two sides.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the initiative is being supported by the United States, where officials are seeking to align regional developments with broader diplomatic efforts involving Iran.

Reports indicate that U.S. President Donald Trump has encouraged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ease military operations in Lebanon as part of efforts to create a more favorable environment for talks.

The negotiations are expected to take place in Washington in the coming days, with both sides represented at the ambassadorial level.

Conflicting Signals

The move toward diplomacy comes despite ongoing military activity and previous statements from Israeli leadership emphasizing continued operations in Lebanon. At the same time, Iranian officials have warned of stronger responses to Israeli strikes, adding further complexity to the situation.

Divided Political Reactions

Within Israel, reactions to the prospect of direct talks have been mixed. Some officials view negotiations as an opportunity to build on military gains and push for Hezbollah’s disarmament, while others remain skeptical about the feasibility of reaching a lasting agreement with Lebanon.

Lebanese Conditions

Lebanese officials have signaled that a ceasefire would be a prerequisite for any direct negotiations. They also emphasized the need for U.S. involvement as both a mediator and a guarantor of any potential agreement.

The proposed talks highlight a potential diplomatic shift amid ongoing tensions, though uncertainties remain over whether negotiations can proceed amid continued military escalation.