A new series of direct talks between Israel and Lebanon has started in Washington following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of commitments from Israel and Hezbollah to ease regional tensions. Lebanese authorities confirmed Hezbollah’s acceptance of a U.S. proposal for a “mutual cessation of attacks” with Israel, as stated by the Lebanese presidency. The confirmation came after a discussion between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding efforts to de-escalate tensions.
The U.S. proposal involves a reciprocal halt to attacks by both parties, with Israel agreeing to stop strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs in return for Hezbollah refraining from attacking Israel. This ceasefire initiative is intended to eventually cover all Lebanese territory. President Trump informed Lebanon’s ambassador to the U.S., Nada Hamadeh Mouawad, that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had approved the proposal. Mouawad then conveyed this information to President Aoun, who subsequently informed Hezbollah of the progress.
Negotiation meetings are set for the coming days to further advance the progress made. Earlier, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri assured the Trump administration that Hezbollah is ready for an immediate and complete ceasefire with Israel, with his commitment to ensuring its implementation.
