US Department of State Spokesperson Tommy Pigott announced that Israeli and Lebanese delegations met at the Department on Tuesday and progress was made in the talks.
It was noted that the parties continue to make progress on political and security issues, emphasizing Washington's determination to mediate in this process. The next round is planned to be held on Wednesday.
Highlights
- Israeli and Lebanese delegations met at the US Department of State.
- Progress was reported in political and security areas during the talks.
- The US announced it continues its mediation role in the negotiations.
- The next round is planned for Wednesday.
Conflict, ceasefire, and ongoing tension
The Israeli army launched intense airstrikes on Lebanon on March 2 and occupied many towns in the south of the country. The Lebanese government announced that the number of displaced people exceeded 1 million during this period.
US President Donald Trump announced on April 24 that the 10-day temporary ceasefire, which came into effect on April 17 between Lebanon and Israel, was extended for another 3 weeks. Subsequently, in the third round of talks held on May 14-15 under US mediation, it was agreed to extend the ceasefire for 45 days as of May 17 and to proceed to the fourth round of talks in early June.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on May 25 that he had instructed the army to increase attacks on Lebanon.
According to the latest statement from the Lebanese Ministry of Health, 3,433 people have died in attacks carried out by Israel since March 2. Despite the ceasefire, the Israeli army continues its attacks and house demolitions in the south, and Hezbollah has launched attacks on Israeli forces citing ceasefire violations.
Context: The talks are being conducted during a period of ongoing clashes and ceasefire violation allegations. The outcome of diplomatic contacts is closely monitored both for the security balance in Lebanon and the course of tension along the border line.
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