WASHINGTON: The United States has urged Israel and Lebanon to seize what it called a “historic opportunity” for peace, as rare direct talks began amid rising tensions and fresh attacks by Hezbollah.
Marco Rubio described the meeting as a critical moment to lay the foundation for lasting stability, despite decades of conflict and deep mistrust between both sides.
The talks — the first of their kind in decades — come as Washington intensifies efforts to prevent the broader regional crisis from escalating further, particularly after stalled negotiations with Iran.
TENSIONS OVERSHADOW TALKS
Even as dialogue began, Hezbollah launched fresh rocket attacks on northern Israel, highlighting the fragile security environment and raising doubts about immediate progress.
Israel signalled openness to peace and normalisation but maintained that addressing Hezbollah remains central to any long-term solution.
REGIONAL CRISIS DEEPENS
The conflict has already caused significant casualties and displacement in Lebanon, while fears grow that continued escalation could destabilize the wider Middle East.
PRESSURE ON IRAN
Meanwhile, Washington has increased pressure on Tehran through a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, calling on Iran to move forward with a diplomatic solution.
Iran has condemned the move, warning of broader consequences if its maritime security is threatened.
UNCERTAIN PATH AHEAD
Despite ongoing diplomacy, expectations of a breakthrough remain low. However, global powers continue to push for dialogue, hoping to prevent further escalation in an already volatile region.