Lebanon And Israel Hold First Direct Talks In Washington Amid Ongoing Conflict

Lebanon and Israel held their first direct diplomatic talks in more than three decades on March 12, 2025, in Washington.

“Middle East live: Israeli army targets vehicles south of Beirut, Hezbollah responds with rockets Israel’s army on Wednesday struck two vehicles south of Beirut, while the Hezbollah militant group responded by sending a barrage of rockets towards Israel”

France 24

The talks were hosted by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and involved the ambassadors of both countries leading their respective delegations.

France 24

The discussions came amid ongoing conflict: Israel struck two vehicles south of Beirut while Hezbollah responded with rockets.

The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported the death toll had risen to 2,124 with 6,921 injured since March 2.

The talks lasted about two hours and were described by U.S. officials as productive.

Despite the talks, Israel continued its military campaign.

The Israeli military stated it struck over 200 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon in 24 hours.

Khaama Press

Netanyahu warned Israel would continue to strike with full force.

Hezbollah dismissed the talks as ineffective and warned it would not adhere to any agreement.

The United Nations refugee chief called for urgent support to Lebanon.

The talks were part of a broader international effort to de-escalate the conflict.

“As Israel intensified its attacks on Lebanon coinciding with the conclusion of the first round of negotiations between Beirut and Tel Aviv in the U”

Okaz

The UAE Vice President discussed de-escalation with Iran's parliament speaker.

The United States was set to send thousands more troops into the Middle East.

Trump said he asked China's Xi Jinping not to supply Iran with weapons.

The talks concluded with both sides agreeing to continue discussions.