Rubio hopes Israel-Lebanon talks will lead to joint statement on ending hostilities
The US secretary of state said the latest round of negotiations aims to produce an action plan focused on security in Lebanon, separate from Hezbollah and external influences.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed hope that the latest round of high-level talks between Israel and Lebanon will result in a joint statement aimed at ending hostilities between the two countries, according to the Associated Press.
Rubio made the remarks yesterday (3 June) while testifying before US lawmakers, shortly after the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors to Washington began a second day of negotiations at the State Department.
He said the goal of the talks is to "produce a joint statement and an action plan on a track for security in that country, independent from Hezbollah, independent from nefarious influence."
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The latest discussions mark the fourth round of talks between Israel and Lebanon and come amid broader efforts to ease tensions in the region.
According to the Associated Press, the meeting follows a round of security-focused discussions held at the Pentagon on Friday.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which is not participating in the talks, remains a major obstacle to efforts to end the wider war involving Iran.
The United States has been engaged in diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions and advance a framework for long-term security and stability along the Israel-Lebanon border.
