Washington: US President Donald Trump on Thursday revealed that Israel and Lebanon are poised for “historic” discussions, the first in over three decades, aimed at reducing tensions along their shared border.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump stated the initiative seeks to create space between the adversaries. “Trying to get a little breathing room between Israel and Lebanon,” he said. “It has been a long time since the two leaders have spoken, like 34 years. It will happen tomorrow. Nice!”
The progress stems from Tuesday’s US-convened trilateral meeting, the highest-level contact between Israel and Lebanon since 1993. Lebanon was drawn into the Middle East war on March 2 when Iran-supported Hezbollah struck Israel, leading to more than 2,000 deaths from ensuing Israeli operations.
Talks Highlights And Netanyahu Priorities
According to the US Department of State, Tuesday’s session emphasised direct talks, with all parties endorsing a ceasefire, security partnership, and permanent peace. The US supported Lebanon’s push to regain control of force and reduce outside influence, positioning the effort as advancing past the 2024 deal into broader resolution—while reinforcing Israel’s right to counter Hezbollah threats.
A US statement insisted any halt to fighting must involve the two governments under American mediation, bypassing side channels. It also flagged prospects for major reconstruction funding and investment growth in Lebanon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined two key priorities during Wednesday remarks: “First, the dismantling of Hezbollah; second, a sustainable peace… achieved through strength.” That day, Israel’s cabinet considered a Lebanon ceasefire, according to a senior official cited by Reuters, as the Financial Times reported—drawing from Lebanese officials—that a deal announcement might be forthcoming. The Lebanon matter, coupled with Iran’s nuclear agenda, continues to block progress in larger discussions.
Munir Mediates US-Iran Talks From Tehran
Meanwhile, Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir landed in Tehran on Wednesday to forestall conflict resurgence. Reuters quoted a senior Iranian source saying the mediator from prior rounds aimed “to narrow gaps” post-Sunday’s impasse.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X, welcoming Munir and reiterating Tehran’s dedication to “promoting peace and stability in the region.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, at Wednesday’s briefing, called Pakistan-brokered exchanges “productive and ongoing,” adding, “We feel good about the prospects of a deal.” She refuted reports on US requests for extending the April 8 two-week truce and noted unconfirmed plans for Pakistan-hosted follow-ups, possibly this weekend.
