US-facilitated Israel-Lebanon talks have begun, says State Department
WASHINGTON, Aug 4 (Reuters) - The latest round of U.S.-facilitated talks between Israel and Lebanon began on Tuesday in Rome and will continue through Thursday, State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said. "The United States remains fully committed to supporting both governments as they carry this process forward in a manner that delivers lasting security for both countries, eliminates…
On Tuesday, August 4, 2026, Hezbollah, the powerful Iran-backed militia in Lebanon, harshly criticized ongoing US-sponsored direct talks between Israel and Lebanon. The militia's chief, Naim Qassem, asserted that these direct negotiations would only bring Lebanon shame and successive concessions. He further alleged that President Joseph Aoun had failed to act as a neutral mediator, becoming biased and divisive instead.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration claimed progress in talks with Iran, aiming to secure the Strait of Hormuz shipping. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said a deal could be reached as early as this week, allowing ships to pass freely through the strait. However, Iran denied these claims, stating it was negotiating with Oman. Lebanon's government also attempted to order Hezbollah to cease any attacks on Israel following US-Israeli strikes on Iran, but the effort proved unsuccessful.
The Rome talks aim to replace Israeli military presence in southern Lebanese towns with Lebanese troops, who would be expected to disarm Hezbollah fighters and prevent attacks on northern Israel, known as "pilot zones." The effectiveness of securing and enforcing Hezbollah's cooperation remains unclear.
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