Lebanon to Engage in Talks with Israel Amid Divided Public Opinion

Direct Talks Between Israel and Lebanon Set to Take Place Amid Ongoing Conflict

A direct negotiation session between Israel and Lebanon is scheduled to take place in Washington, DC, amidst ongoing tensions between the two countries. The talks will involve ambassadors from both sides, as well as US officials.

On Thursday evening, a meeting was held between Israeli and Lebanese representatives, which has sparked controversy within Lebanon. Some individuals have expressed support for Hezbollah’s armed response, while others reject the talks outright.

The conflict escalated on March 2, when Israel intensified its military operations in Lebanon. Since then, over 1.2 million people have been displaced, and more than 2,294 people have been killed, including journalists and medics. The Israeli military has also established a buffer zone around 10km from the border, where residents are not allowed to return.

Hezbollah, which controls areas affected by the conflict, has rejected the talks. However, Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has stated that his country will seek an extension to the current ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal.

The Lebanese side is also seeking the return of Lebanese captives held by Israel. The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be present at the talks, along with ambassadors from both countries and their respective US counterparts.

Protesters have taken to the streets in Beirut to express opposition to the talks, citing concerns that Lebanon lacks leverage in negotiations with Israel. Some believe that Iran, Hezbollah’s benefactor, has more influence to negotiate on its behalf. Others argue that the Lebanese state has limited ability to secure favorable outcomes due to Israel’s history of not upholding agreements.

The outcome of the talks remains uncertain, and it is unclear whether they will lead to a resolution or further escalation of the conflict.

Source: Al Jazeera