Lebanon sees cautious optimism over direct talks with Israel

US Hosts Third Round of Direct Talks Between Israel and Lebanon

A two-day diplomatic meeting between Israeli and Lebanese officials has commenced in Washington, DC, ahead of the expiration of a current ceasefire agreement. The talks, which began on Thursday, mark an escalation in negotiations between the two countries.

Ambassadors from both nations attended preparatory sessions earlier this week, but higher-level envoys are now participating. Lebanese envoy Simon Karam, who recently represented Lebanon in indirect talks with Israel, is leading the discussions. On the Israeli side, Deputy National Security Adviser Yossi Draznin will attend.

The meeting comes as a ceasefire agreement set to expire on Sunday. The United Nations has expressed hope that the talks will contribute to an effective and durable ceasefire and pave the way for lasting peace.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio did not attend Thursday’s session, as he was with US President Donald Trump on a visit to China. Lebanese officials are seeking a new ceasefire deal and aim to address issues such as the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and the disarmament of Hezbollah.

Hezbollah has been vocal in its opposition to direct talks with Israel, calling them “free concessions.” However, there is optimism among some that the meeting may lead to progress. The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) continues to monitor significant aerial and military activity along the border.

In Lebanon, people are cautiously optimistic about the possible results from these meetings. While a normalization agreement with Israel remains unlikely due to constitutional restrictions, many hope for an end to violence as diplomatic efforts continue.

Source: Al Jazeera