INTERNATIONAL — June 23, 2026
Lebanon and Israel Begin New Round of US-Mediated Talks in Washington
Israeli officials are stressing the need for continued military operations in southern Lebanon as a security condition, while Hezbollah demands a complete withdrawal and a Lebanese parliamentarian alleged plans for a Greater Israel that would include neighboring countries, as the death toll exceeds 4,100 since the March 2 ceasefire.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with ToloNews — 2 min read
A new round of direct talks between Lebanon and Israel has begun in Washington under United States mediation. The negotiations are intended to focus on disarming Hezbollah and reaching a peace agreement between the parties.
David Menser, spokesman for the Israeli Prime Minister's office, said Israel is holding the talks with the aim of disarming Hezbollah and achieving a real peace agreement. Israeli officials have stressed the continuation of military operations in southern Lebanon as a security requirement.
Hezbollah has maintained its demand for a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and rejects any remaining military presence. Lebanese parliamentarian Ayoub Hamid accused Israel of seeking to establish a "Greater Israel" that would incorporate areas from Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria and the Arabian Peninsula.
The talks are occurring as clashes continue in southern Lebanon. More than 4,100 people have been killed in Lebanon since the March 2 ceasefire as a result of ongoing attacks. The discussions represent an attempt to resolve these issues through diplomatic channels despite the prevailing tensions.
Read the original reporting at ToloNews →
Reliability assessment
Single source provides direct on-record quote from named Israeli Prime Minister's office spokesman David Menser regarding the talks and their goals, making the attribution verifiable and concrete. Specific details on dates, locations, and positions are included.
The source language mixes facts with framing or advocacy wording. ToloNews: "Greater Israel" that includes Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria and even the Arabian Peninsula; always ready to expand again to complete this grand plan. These phrases frame Israel's actions as part of an expansive, aggressive ideological project, introducing opinion and advocacy through unsubstantiated territorial claims.
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International — Lebanon, Israel, Hezbollah, US Mediation, David Menser
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