Joint negotiation statement from the US, Lebanon, and Israel: Agreement reached

US Department of State Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott issued a written statement regarding the meeting held in Washington under US mediation, which was recorded as the "highest-level direct talks since 1993."

The statement noted that the meeting was "very productive," that the US congratulated both countries, and that today's meeting established a strong foundation for future discussions.

DECISION TO NEGOTIATE

The statement emphasized that all parties have agreed to begin direct negotiations at a mutually agreed-upon time and place.

EMPHASIS ON TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY

The statement included the Lebanese side's expression, referring to Israel's ongoing attacks: "The Lebanese State, reaffirming the urgent need for the full implementation of the cessation of hostilities announcement made in November 2024, emphasized the principles of territorial integrity and full state sovereignty."

The statement, which noted that the expectations of the US and Israel regarding Hezbollah were clearly set forth, assessed: "The US stated its hope that the talks could go beyond the scope of the 2024 agreement to reach a comprehensive peace treaty. The US also expressed its support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hezbollah's ongoing attacks."

Furthermore, the statement emphasized that future meetings should also be held under US mediation and indicated that issues related to potential aid for the reconstruction of Lebanon would also be addressed.

Regarding Israel's approach to the meeting, the statement included: "The State of Israel expressed its support for the disarmament of all non-state terrorist groups in Lebanon and the elimination of all terrorist infrastructure, and expressed its determination to cooperate with the Lebanese Government to ensure the security of the peoples of both countries."

The meeting, held at the Department of State building, was attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, US Permanent Representative to the UN Mike Waltz, Department Advisor Michael Needham, US Ambassador to Beirut Michel Issa, Israeli Ambassador to Washington Yechiel Leiter, and Lebanese Ambassador to Washington Nada Hamadeh-Moawad.

Making a brief statement before the meeting, US Secretary of State Rubio noted that the problems between the two countries would not be solved overnight but that this meeting was extremely important, stating, "This is a historic opportunity. There are decades of history lessons that brought us to this point and to the opportunity here."

News Source: 12punto