- Apr 16, 2026
International Desk. PNN
US President Donald Trump has announced that, for the first time in 34 years, top leaders of Israel and Lebanon are set to hold direct talks. According to him, the talks are scheduled to take place on Thursday.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social on Wednesday, Trump said the initiative aims to reduce tensions and bring “temporary relief” to the situation. However, he did not specify who will participate in the talks.
A day before the announcement, the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors held their first direct diplomatic meeting in over three decades in Washington DC. The meeting reportedly focused on ongoing conflict and reducing tensions.
While Israel has not issued an official response, a member of its security council said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may speak with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.
Meanwhile, Lebanese officials said they have not yet received any official confirmation of such scheduled talks.
The situation has become more complex amid ongoing conflict. Despite a ceasefire agreement last year, tensions continue in border areas, with recent attacks causing heavy casualties and displacement.
Analysts say that although such high-level talks may be a diplomatic attempt to reduce Middle East tensions, real progress will depend on political positions and military conditions.
Al Jazeera reported from Beirut that the announcement has received mixed reactions in Lebanon’s political circles. While some see it as a potential peace initiative, others describe it as controversial and uncertain.