Lebanon and Israel have engaged in their first direct diplomatic talks since 1993, in a rare encounter mediated by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The talks aim to bring an end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.
The US Secretary of State described the talks as a 'historic opportunity' to end Hezbollah's influence in the region. A US statement revealed that both sides have agreed to launch direct negotiations, with the time and place yet to be determined.
Israel has expressed its desire to disarm all non-state terror groups, specifically referencing Hezbollah. On the other hand, Lebanon has called for a ceasefire and measures to address its humanitarian crisis, which has resulted in over 2,000 deaths and the displacement of about a million people since the conflict began on March 2.
Hezbollah, which was founded in 1982, holds significant sway in Lebanon's predominantly Shia south and the southern suburbs of Beirut. The group's relationship with Lebanon's central government has become increasingly strained since its involvement in the war between Israel and Iran.
US Mediation and Reaction
A US state department spokesman, Tommy Pigott, stated that both Israel and Lebanon have agreed to work towards reducing Hezbollah's influence. The US has also expressed its support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hezbollah's attacks.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, 'This will take time, but we believe it is worth this endeavour. It's a historic gathering that we hope to build on.' Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed hope that the talks would mark the beginning of the end of the suffering of the Lebanese people.
A senior member of Hezbollah, Wafiq Safa, told the AP news agency that the group would not abide by any settlement agreed upon in Washington, stating, 'We are not bound by what they agreed to.' This statement highlights the challenges that lie ahead in the negotiations.
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