Israel, Lebanon hold fourth round of talks in Washington

Israeli and Lebanese delegations met Tuesday at the US Department of State for a fourth round of direct negotiations, with Washington reporting progress toward a comprehensive agreement despite ongoing ceasefire violations in southern Lebanon.

Progress reported

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said on social media platform X that the talks represent a break from two decades of diplomatic failures. "Progress continues on the political and security tracks," he said, noting that the negotiations aim to restore Lebanese sovereignty while ensuring Israeli security. Pigott confirmed that negotiators would reconvene Wednesday, reaffirming Washington's commitment to serving as a mediator in "these historic negotiations."

Truce violations persist

Israel has maintained military operations inside Lebanon in violation of a US-mediated ceasefire that took effect on April 17 and was extended until early July. US President Donald Trump said on Monday that Israel and Hezbollah had reached an understanding to halt attacks against each other, adding that Israeli troops would not enter Beirut.

Lebanon's Health Ministry reported that Israeli attacks have killed at least 3,468 people and wounded 10,577 others since March 2. The violence has persisted despite the April ceasefire agreement and repeated diplomatic interventions.