Israel and Lebanon Hold Third Round of Direct Talks in Washington Amid Ongoing Conflict
Israel and Lebanon are engaged in a second day of direct negotiations in Washington, marking the third round of talks aimed at renewing the expiring ceasefire with Hezbollah. US State Department officials described initial discussions as productive, though significant challenges remain regarding Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon and Hezbollah's disarmament. The militant group, which is not party to the talks, continues to oppose direct engagement with Israel. Violence persists despite the ceasefire, with recent Israeli airstrikes killing civilians in Lebanon and Hezbollah drone attacks injuring individuals in northern Israel. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has declined direct meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to avoid political repercussions, preferring to finalize a security deal first. The conflict, reignited in March 2026 following US-Israeli actions against Iran, has resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths in Lebanon. High-level envoys are now leading the negotiations, replacing previous ambassador-level talks, as both sides seek a diplomatic resolution before the current truce expires.
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