US President Trump Announces Leaders of Israel and Lebanon to Meet on Thursday

US President Announces Historic Talks Between Israeli and Lebanese Leaders

Washington D.C. - US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that leaders from Israel and Lebanon will hold their first direct talks in 34 years, set to take place on Thursday. The announcement follows a day of diplomatic efforts between the two countries’ envoys in Washington.

According to Trump’s social media post, the goal of the talks is to establish “a little breathing room” between the two nations. Details about who will be participating in the discussions have not been disclosed.

The situation on the ground has seen significant escalation since March 2, when Lebanon became embroiled in the conflict with Israel and Iran. Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel were reportedly retaliation for Israel’s killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28. Since then, over 2,000 people have been killed in Lebanon, and more than 1.2 million displaced.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that his military is pursuing negotiations with the Lebanese government alongside its campaign against Hezbollah, aiming to disarm the group and achieve a “sustainable peace”. The Lebanese government, however, seeks a ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon.

Al Jazeera’s Malcom Webb reported from Beirut that the Israeli military launched an invasion in southern Lebanon, seeking to occupy territory. However, it has faced resistance from Hezbollah, and negotiations have centered on establishing a buffer zone. Webb noted that even if a ceasefire were to occur, many questions remain for those displaced by the conflict.

The talks between Israel and Lebanon mark a significant development in the ongoing crisis, with both sides seeking resolution.

Source: Al Jazeera