Israel and Lebanon leaders set for direct talks, says Trump
US President Donald Trump announced that leaders from Israel and Lebanon will speak on Thursday, aiming to reduce tensions after their first direct talks in decades. Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East conflict after Hezbollah attacked Israel, leading to significant casualties and displacement. The US is pushing for a peace agreement but has not demanded an immediate ceasefire. Efforts are focused on building trust between the two nations for a durable peace.
What we know
- Donald Trump stated that Israeli and Lebanese leaders will speak on Thursday, following a meeting in Washington described as their first direct negotiations since 1993.
- Over 2,000 people have been killed and more than one million displaced in Lebanon due to Israeli strikes after Hezbollah's attack.
- A senior US official said Trump would welcome an end to hostilities as part of a peace agreement, but clarified that US-Iran negotiations are not linked to these talks.
- The US is concentrating on fostering trust between the governments of Israel and Lebanon to pave the way for a lasting peace deal.
- Netanyahu highlighted two main goals: dismantling Hezbollah and achieving sustainable peace through strength.
