Israel And Lebanon Hold First Direct Talks Since 1993 To End Hezbollah Conflict

Lebanon and Israel held their first direct diplomatic talks in over three decades on April 14, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

The talks were hosted by the U.S. State Department and lasted more than two hours.

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Rubio called it a historic opportunity to bring a permanent end to 20 or 30 years of Hezbollah's influence.

The two countries do not have diplomatic relations, and the last direct talks took place in 1993.

The meeting came after six weeks of fighting that killed more than 2,100 people in Lebanon.

Israel attended with instructions not to agree to a ceasefire.

Lebanese officials sought an immediate ceasefire and measures to address the humanitarian crisis.

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The State Department said Israel expressed support for disarming militant groups.

Hezbollah opposed the talks and was not represented.

A senior member of Hezbollah's political council said the group would not abide by any settlement.

All sides agreed to launch direct negotiations at a mutually agreed time and venue.

“The ambassadors of Lebanon and Israel joined United States-brokered talks in Washington, DC, with Lebanese authorities seeking to secure a ceasefire, while Israel’s goal is the disarmament of the Hezbollah armed group”

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The Lebanese government made it very clear that they will no longer be occupied by Hezbollah.

The Lebanese ambassador called for a ceasefire and the return of displaced citizens.

Despite the talks, fighting continued along the border.

Israel prepared for a long-term occupation of southern Lebanon.