A new round of talks between Israel and Lebanon, mediated by the U.S., has begun in Washington. The Israeli Embassy in the U.S. announced that the talks will be conducted simultaneously through diplomatic and military channels.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson said the negotiations would begin with a joint military and political session, followed by a separate military session, and conclude with a final political session. The talks are scheduled to continue through Thursday.
Lebanese president calls for Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon
This new round of negotiations comes at a time of ongoing tension between Israel and Lebanon regarding the border and security arrangements. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said in a statement that the new round of talks, backed by the U.S., could be decisive.
Aoun added that they would accept nothing less than an end to the “Israeli occupation” in southern Lebanon, saying that no concessions would be made on this issue. The talks are expected to cover both military security issues and efforts to find a diplomatic solution.
