Direct Israel-Lebanon diplomatic talks occurred in Washington, while Donald Trump announced negotiations with Iran amid a potential two-week ceasefire.
Israel-Lebanon Discussions and Conflicting Reports
The first direct diplomatic talks between Israel and Lebanon in some time took place in Washington on Tuesday, with a potential ceasefire being among the discussed topics, according to Axios.
Trump Announces Potential Meetings and Ceasefire
On Thursday, Donald Trump announced on social media that a meeting between the leaders of Lebanon and Israel was scheduled for the same day. He stated they hadn’t spoken in 34 years and expressed optimism, but did not specify a location.
Lebanon Denies Knowledge of Planned Meeting
However, a Lebanese official source informed AFP that Lebanon has “no knowledge” of an upcoming meeting with Israel and has not been officially informed through proper channels.
US Aims for Lebanon Ceasefire to Facilitate Iran Deal
Axios reported Wednesday that the US President would welcome a ceasefire in Lebanon, which could aid in reaching an agreement with Iran, with whom the US has been engaged in conflict since late February. The Financial Times, citing Lebanese authorities, suggests a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is expected “soon.”
Demands for Ceasefire and Disarmament
Beirut is calling for a ceasefire in Israel’s offensive against Lebanese Hezbollah, while Israeli authorities demand the Iran-backed group disarm. Lebanon does not control Hezbollah and any order to disarm would likely be rejected.
Escalation of Conflict and Initial Operations
In early March, the Israeli army launched operations against Hezbollah, conducting extensive airstrikes in Lebanon and ground operations in the south. The conflict escalated after Hezbollah began retaliatory attacks on northern Israel in response to US-Israeli strikes on Iran starting February 28th.
Trump’s Negotiations with Iran and Potential Breakthrough
Simultaneously, the Trump administration is pursuing a peace agreement with Iran during a two-week ceasefire announced last week, following earlier threats of “annihilating” civilization. Trump suggested a breakthrough in talks may be near, despite unsuccessful initial negotiations in Pakistan.
Further Negotiations Expected in Pakistan
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated Wednesday that any future talks with Iran would likely be held in Pakistan again. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Bagei confirmed Wednesday that Tehran maintains contact with Washington through Pakistan, which hosted the initial peace negotiations. Pakistani army chief Asim Munir traveled to Tehran Wednesday to help bridge the gap between the two sides.
