Israeli and Lebanese Civilian Representatives Hold Historic Talks

In a significant diplomatic development, Israeli and Lebanese civilian representatives convened on December 3, 2025, for their first direct talks in decades. The meeting, held at the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) headquarters in Naqoura, near the Israel-Lebanon border, marks a pivotal shift from military to civilian engagement in the ongoing ceasefire monitoring process.

This dialogue is part of a broader mechanism overseeing the ceasefire that began on November 27, 2024, following a year-long conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The 2024 ceasefire agreement, brokered by the United States and France, mandated a 60-day halt to hostilities, requiring Israel to withdraw its forces from Southern Lebanon and Hezbollah to retreat north of the Litani River. The agreement aimed to cease hostilities permanently and was seen as a significant step toward lasting peace.

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun appointed Simon Karam, a former ambassador to the United States, to lead the Lebanese delegation. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed the acting director of the National Security Council, Gil Reich, to appoint a representative for the meeting. Uri Resnick of the National Security Council represented Israel. U.S. Special Representative Morgan Ortagus also attended the talks, underscoring international interest in the proceedings.

The inclusion of civilian representatives in the talks signifies a shift from purely military to civilian involvement in discussions, potentially paving the way for broader diplomatic engagement and economic cooperation between the two countries. However, this move is divisive within Lebanon, where many view Israel as an enemy. Sending a civilian to the meeting is seen as a concession from the Lebanese government, reflecting internal debates about the country's foreign policy direction.

Despite the ceasefire, tensions have persisted. Israeli airstrikes have continued in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah operatives and infrastructure, resulting in civilian casualties. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has stated that the group retains the right to retaliate against Israeli actions, leaving open the possibility of renewed conflict.

In response to these tensions, the Lebanese army has increased its presence along the border with Israel, particularly in regions previously considered Hezbollah strongholds. Nearly 10,000 troops have been deployed south of the Litani River, and efforts are underway to dismantle Hezbollah posts and clear unexploded ordnance.

Pope Leo, during his recent visit to Lebanon, emphasized that the establishment of a Palestinian state is the only viable resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He expressed the Church’s desire to act as a mediating voice to foster a just resolution.

The direct talks between Israel and Lebanon represent a cautious yet hopeful step toward resolving longstanding hostilities. While challenges remain, the engagement of civilian representatives and the support of international actors suggest a potential path toward lasting peace and cooperation in the region.