Washington, June 2: The fourth round of high-level talks between Israel and Lebanon commenced at the US State Department on Tuesday under American mediation, as escalating Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon continue to raise concerns over regional stability and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
According to officials, the discussions are being led by US Deputy National Security Adviser Mike Needham and State Department Counsellor Dan Holler. Israel and Lebanon are represented by their respective ambassadors to the United States. The participants did not take questions from reporters during a brief photo opportunity at the start of the meeting.
The latest round of negotiations comes against the backdrop of continued Israeli strikes targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, despite an existing ceasefire agreement between the two sides. The hostilities have raised concerns about the future of diplomatic initiatives involving the United States and Iran.
Last month, the United States facilitated two days of talks between Israel and Lebanon, resulting in a 45-day extension of the April 16 cessation of hostilities agreement. The extension was intended to provide sufficient time for security-related negotiations to progress.
US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott had described the earlier discussions as constructive, saying both sides agreed on a framework aimed at promoting long-term peace and stability along their shared border. The framework focuses on mutual recognition of sovereignty, respect for territorial integrity, and the establishment of lasting security arrangements.
A separate security track involving military delegations from Israel and Lebanon was launched at the Pentagon on May 29 to enhance coordination and communication with US facilitation. Working-level discussions between military representatives have already begun.
The talks are taking place amid a deteriorating security situation in Lebanon. Israeli military operations in recent weeks have reportedly caused significant casualties and damage while expanding Israeli control in parts of southern Lebanon.
On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israeli forces had captured the strategic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon. Describing the development as a major achievement, Netanyahu said the operation reflected the unity and determination of Israeli forces and ordered the military to expand its operations in the area.
A day later, Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz directed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to carry out strikes on targets in Beirut, citing what Israel described as repeated Hezbollah violations of the ceasefire agreement.
The escalation has also drawn a strong reaction from Iran. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who is leading Tehran’s negotiating team, warned that continued Israeli attacks could prompt Iran to suspend its dialogue with the United States and adopt a firmer stance against Israel.
Meanwhile, reports suggest growing tensions between Washington and Tel Aviv over the military campaign. According to Axios, US President Donald Trump expressed frustration during a telephone conversation with Netanyahu, criticising Israel’s military response and warning that the ongoing operations were fuelling international hostility.
The diplomatic talks in Washington are being closely watched as regional stakeholders seek to prevent further escalation and preserve prospects for a broader peace and security framework in the Middle East.