Lebanon and Israel agree to direct negotiations following high-level talks in Washington

Lebanon and Israel have agreed to initiate direct negotiations at a mutually agreed time and venue. This decision follows high-level discussions held in Washington on April 14, with participation from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Counselor Michael Needham, United States Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa, Ambassador of Israel to the United States Yechiel Leiter, and Ambassador of Lebanon to the United States Nada Hamadeh Moawad. Israel expressed support for disarming non-state terror groups and dismantling terror infrastructure in Lebanon, committing to work with the Lebanese government to ensure security for both nations' citizens. Israel also reaffirmed its commitment to direct negotiations to resolve outstanding issues and achieve durable peace. Lebanon emphasized the urgent need for full implementation of the cessation of hostilities announced in November 2024, highlighting territorial integrity, full state sovereignty, and calling for a ceasefire and measures to address the humanitarian crisis. The United States hopes these talks will lead to a comprehensive peace deal beyond the 2024 agreement, affirming that any cessation of hostilities must be directly between the two governments, brokered by the US. The US also noted the potential for these negotiations to unlock reconstruction assistance and economic recovery for Lebanon, and expand investment opportunities for both countries.