Lebanon

Discussion over a possible EU mission comes as the mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon is set to expire at the end of 2026, when it is expected to begin a year-long drawdown and withdrawal.

According to Wiener, "If the IDF chief says the PA is a threat and the Shin Bet says this also, this could change the public view and then help convince the Americans. This is the agenda."

Israeli forces have sealed tunnel entrances and instructed troops to operate in small units, amid fears that underground infrastructure could be used for ambush or abduction attempts.

Hamas is now working harder than before to redevelop rocket firing capabilities against Israel to intimidate the Jewish state into heeding its demands.

Iran has pursued a ceasefire in Lebanon as a key condition in its Memorandum of Understanding with the United States.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa reportedly denied that he seeks to intervene in Lebanon after US President Donald Trump repeatedly suggested Damascus could get involved."

JCFA's survey also found that 65% of Israelis do not trust international forces to replace Israeli security roles, citing past failures and reassessing Oslo and Gaza disengagement policies.

A joint statement released by the mediating countries, Qatar and Pakistan, announced the creation of a deconfliction mechanism for Lebanon.

Second day of Israel-Lebanon talks begin in Washington • Iran, Oman push to become administrators of Strait of Hormuz • EU diplomatic service proposes mission to train Lebanese forces

All of this was taking place just as Jerusalem and Beirut kicked off another round of direct talks in Washington addressing a wide range of issues.