Israel and Lebanon leaders to hold talks, says Trump

US President Donald Trump announced that leaders of Israel and Lebanon are expected to engage in direct talks soon, marking the first such negotiations in over three decades. This development follows a high-level meeting in Washington and comes amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, which has resulted in significant casualties. Israel’s cabinet recently convened to discuss a potential ceasefire after more than six weeks of hostilities that have killed over 2,000 people in Lebanon, according to Lebanese health officials. The prospect of a ceasefire is gaining traction as Lebanese officials suggest an announcement could be imminent. The conflict has been a major obstacle in broader Middle East peace efforts, intertwined with concerns over Iran’s nuclear program. Diplomatic efforts are also underway involving Pakistan, which is mediating talks between the US and Iran. Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, arrived in Tehran to facilitate negotiations aimed at de-escalating tensions and preventing further conflict in the region. While recent talks ended without a definitive agreement, US officials remain cautiously optimistic about progress. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt described the discussions as “productive and ongoing,” though no formal extension of the current ceasefire has been requested. The next round of negotiations is likely to take place in Pakistan, underscoring the country’s growing role as a mediator in Middle Eastern diplomacy. The conflict and diplomatic developments have also influenced global markets. Stock indexes in the US have rallied on hopes for a swift resolution, while crude oil prices have stabilized. Meanwhile, the US Treasury has signaled continued economic pressure on Iran, warning that secondary sanctions could be imposed on countries purchasing Iranian oil, particularly China, which has been a major buyer despite the US blockade on Iranian ports. These measures aim to curb Iran’s regional influence and nuclear ambitions amid ongoing tensions.