Lebanon and Israel have held their first direct diplomatic talks in over three decades, marking a rare step towards de-escalation amid ongoing conflict involving Hezbollah.

The meeting, mediated by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, resulted in an agreement to begin direct negotiations at a future date.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called for a ceasefire and urgent humanitarian relief, while Israel reiterated its objective to dismantle non-state armed groups.

Key developments:

• Over 2,000 killed and around one million displaced since hostilities escalated in March 2026

• Both sides agreed to pursue further negotiations under US mediation

• Lebanon emphasised humanitarian measures; Israel focused on disarmament of Hezbollah

• Hezbollah signalled it may not adhere to outcomes agreed in Washington

Despite diplomatic progress, hostilities continued, with reported cross-border attacks during the talks. The discussions highlight ongoing geopolitical tensions linked to the broader Israel-Iran dynamic.

ℹ️ BBC News

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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (C) speaks during a meeting with Lebanon’s Ambassador to the US Nada Hamadeh Moawad (2R) and Israeli Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter (2L) at the State Department in Washington, DC, on April 14, 2026. (Oliver Contreras / AFP)
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