For the first time in over three decades, Lebanon and Israel have held direct diplomatic talks, mediated by the United States, in a bid to end ongoing hostilities. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the meeting a "historic opportunity" to curb the influence of Iran-backed Hezbollah.
Both nations have agreed to commence direct negotiations at a future date. Israel's objective is to disarm all non-state armed groups, a clear reference to Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Lebanon has called for a ceasefire and urgent humanitarian aid.
The last high-level direct talks between the two countries, which do not maintain diplomatic relations, occurred in 1993. Since Israeli military operations began on March 2nd, over 2,000 individuals have been reported killed. The discussions took place as Hezbollah claimed responsibility for numerous attacks on Israel and Israeli forces in Lebanon.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed hope that the talks would "mark the beginning of the end of the suffering of the Lebanese people." However, a senior Hezbollah official stated the group would not be bound by any agreements reached in Washington, underscoring the significant challenges ahead.