Summary
Diplomats from Israel and Lebanon met for the first direct public talks since 1993, under U.S. guidance, to discuss cooperation on economic projects near their shared border. The talks aim to reduce tensions between the two countries, amid recent conflicts with Hezbollah and Israeli military actions. The U.S. has been working for months to facilitate these talks, hoping to prevent further escalation.
Key Facts
- Israel and Lebanon held direct talks for the first time since 1993.
- The U.S. organized the meeting to encourage cooperation on economic projects.
- The talks took place near the border between Israel and Lebanon.
- The U.S. hopes these talks will reduce tensions and avoid a resumption of the war.
- Israel has recently increased military strikes in Lebanon to counter Hezbollah.
- The meeting followed a significant Israeli airstrike that killed a top Hezbollah leader.
- The U.S. began efforts to initiate talks in March, pressing both sides to participate.
- The discussions included exploring economic cooperation, with a long-term goal of creating a cooperative "economic zone."
