Washington warns Lebanon of "running out of time" and urges direct negotiations with Israel

SadaNews - U.S. envoy Thomas Barak urged Lebanon on Saturday to conduct direct negotiations with Israel, warning that "there is no time left for Lebanon, and it must disarm quickly" in reference to Hezbollah; this comes amid rising concerns following the intensification of Israeli attacks inside Lebanese territory nearly a year after the ceasefire agreement.

Despite the ceasefire agreement reached in November 2024 with Hezbollah, Israel has maintained its forces at five points in southern Lebanon and continues to carry out airstrikes on a daily basis.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun accused Israel on Friday of responding to his country's calls for negotiations by intensifying its airstrikes.

Lebanese authorities have conducted indirect talks with Israel, but Barak said the key to easing tensions might lie in direct negotiations.

The U.S. envoy told reporters on the sidelines of the "Manama Dialogue" organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Bahrain that "the dialogue must be with Israel. It can only be with Israel, and Israel is ready".

He added, "Take this path, to Israel, and have a conversation, it won't harm." However, he stated that Lebanese leaders are "rightfully anxious" about such talks.

Barak added, "They are rightfully hesitant because the environment is dangerous." He continued addressing Lebanese officials, "If you want to do this, we will help you. We will pressure Israel to be reasonable."

The United States is striving to encourage Lebanon to follow in the footsteps of neighboring Syria, which is seeking to conclude a security agreement with Israel.

During a seminar in Manama, Barak said, "The path is very clear, and it should lead to Jerusalem or Tel Aviv for talks alongside Syria. Syria is guiding the way."