The United States has launched a renewed diplomatic initiative aimed at resolving the long-standing conflict between Israel and Lebanon. As part of the effort, the U.S. State Department has announced plans to host a bilateral meeting in Washington, D.C. next week, bringing together senior representatives from both countries.
In a statement issued on Friday (June 19), the State Department said the talks are intended to reduce border tensions and explore pathways toward a lasting peace agreement.
The announcement came shortly after Israel and Hezbollah confirmed the implementation of a ceasefire along the Lebanon border. However, reports simultaneously emerged of heavy casualties in southern Lebanon following Israeli strikes, with at least 47 civilians reportedly killed, according to various sources.
The U.S. State Department said Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the framework of the talks in a phone conversation with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Rubio reportedly emphasized that direct dialogue with Israel remains the key path toward Lebanon’s economic recovery and long-term stability.
The agenda for the upcoming meetings scheduled for June 23 and 25 was also reviewed during the discussions.
Earlier in April, representatives of the two countries held direct talks for the first time in decades. Although a temporary ceasefire was later reached following the June meeting, full progress has been hindered by the exclusion of Hezbollah from the negotiation process.
Analysts say that the Hezbollah issue, border security, and the question of troop withdrawal are likely to remain the main challenges in any future peace process.
Source: Al Jazeera.