WASHINGTON, April 14: Lebanon and Israel have begun their first direct diplomatic talks in decades in Washington, following more than a month of intense conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
The talks are being facilitated by the United States and were described by Secretary of State Marco Rubio as a “historic opportunity,” though he stressed that no immediate breakthrough is expected due to longstanding tensions and complexity.
US officials, including Rubio and Ambassador Mike Waltz, attended the opening session, which is being led by senior diplomats from both countries.
The discussions aim to establish a framework for long-term security along Israel’s northern border and to support Lebanon in regaining control over its territory from Hezbollah. The conflict has escalated significantly, with heavy cross-border fire, Israeli airstrikes, and Hezbollah rocket attacks.
Thousands have been killed in Lebanon, and over a million people have been displaced. Despite military pressure, Hezbollah continues to resist the talks and was not represented, while continuing attacks on Israeli positions.
The Lebanese government hopes diplomacy will end the war, but Hezbollah insists it will not accept any agreements made without its involvement.
Israel has ruled out a ceasefire and maintains that Hezbollah is the central issue, while demanding security guarantees and the disarmament of militant forces in southern Lebanon.
The talks mark the first Israel-Lebanon direct engagement since 1993 and represent a fragile attempt to reduce hostilities.
However, deep mistrust, ongoing violence, and opposing demands suggest that achieving a lasting agreement will be difficult. (AP)
