Washington Prepares New Lebanon-Israel Talks Amid Risk of Third Conflict Round

Diplomatic sources revealed to the Lebanese newspaper Al-Diyar that Washington is preparing for a new round of negotiations between Lebanese and Israeli delegations in early July 2026. This follows the anticipated submission of a final report by the U.S. Central Command to the State Department regarding the military implementation mechanisms of the framework agreement between the two countries. The Pentagon will have the authority to assess progress on the agreement’s clauses and a confidential security annex.

Sources indicated that Lebanon has a limited timeframe, possibly no longer than two months, to fulfill its commitments under the agreement. Failure to do so could make a third round of hostilities a realistic possibility, with Israel reserving the right to take any necessary measures for its defense. The Lebanese delegation’s signature on the agreement effectively holds the Lebanese government fully responsible for any violations or delays in implementation.

Lebanese government officials stressed that President Michel Aoun remains committed to completing the agreement process. They affirmed that the Lebanese Army command and military delegation are dedicated to fulfilling all obligations as they move into the operational phase. Behind the scenes, internal political talks continue discreetly to facilitate the Lebanese Army’s deployment in southern Lebanon and to avoid clashes with Hezbollah and local residents.

Additionally, sources close to Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati told Al-Diyar that Mikati was surprised by opposition from three ministers allied with him regarding the draft framework agreement. These ministers criticized the agreement for containing unbalanced clauses and unjustified concessions, particularly concerning disarmament, linking Israeli withdrawal to implementation, Lebanon’s waiver of the right to sue Israel in international courts, and the absence of a timetable for Israeli withdrawal. Mikati himself reportedly expressed reservations about some provisions of the agreement.