WASHINGTON: Lebanon and Israel held their first direct diplomatic talks in decades on Tuesday in Washington, following more than a month of conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah.
The meeting, facilitated by the United States, lasted about two hours. Marco Rubio described it as a “historic opportunity,” while cautioning that no immediate breakthrough was expected.
In a statement, the US State Department termed the discussions “productive,” focusing on steps toward launching formal negotiations. It stressed that any agreement to end hostilities must be reached directly between the Lebanese and Israeli governments.
Israeli Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter called the talks positive and pointed to growing alignment on reducing Hezbollah’s influence. Lebanese Ambassador Nada Hamadeh Moawad emphasised the need for a ceasefire, return of displaced people, and addressing the humanitarian crisis.
Despite the diplomatic engagement, Hezbollah rejected the talks and said it would not abide by any agreement reached. The group continued attacks on northern Israel during the discussions.
The two countries, officially at war since 1948, have had no formal diplomatic relations and have relied on indirect communication in the past. This marks their first direct talks since 1993.
The recent escalation began after Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel in early March, triggering Israeli airstrikes and a ground operation in southern Lebanon.
Lebanese authorities hope the talks will lead to a ceasefire, while Israel maintains that security concerns, including Hezbollah’s presence near its border, must be addressed.
The conflict has resulted in heavy casualties and widespread displacement in Lebanon, with ongoing cross-border attacks despite diplomatic efforts.
