The veteran envoys leading Lebanon-Israel direct talks

In a significant diplomatic development, Lebanon and Israel are participating in direct talks in Washington, a move spearheaded by seasoned negotiators Simon Karam and Yechiel Leiter. This engagement marks a critical juncture, occurring after decades of a state of war and with no formal ties between the two nations. The talks are being facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump, who hopes for a historic breakthrough, even as Israeli forces remain deployed in southern Lebanon.

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was a decisive and rational negotiator

The Lebanese delegation, led by Simon Karam, is focused on consolidating a ceasefire from the latest conflict and securing the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory. Conversely, Israel's primary objective is to ensure the disarmament of Hezbollah, a powerful Iran-backed group. The profiles of the envoys underscore the complexities and entrenched positions that characterize these negotiations.

Simon Karam, a respected lawyer and politician, is known for his staunch defense of Lebanon's sovereignty and unity, particularly in a country marked by sectarian divisions. His appointment to lead these sensitive talks reflects Beirut's desire for a negotiator who can uphold national interests. Karam's background as a former ambassador to Washington and his role in monitoring previous ceasefires lend him significant experience. His reputation as a calm yet uncompromising negotiator, deeply committed to a stable and sovereign Lebanon, is well-established.

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He was particularly insistent on the demand that southern residents return to their towns, and spoke at length about the emotional ties linking villagers to their lands

On the Israeli side, Yechiel Leiter, serving as Israel's ambassador to the United States, is presented as a close ally of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. His involvement signals a strong alignment with the current Israeli government's objectives. The contrasting priorities and backgrounds of Karam and Leiter encapsulate the deep-seated challenges that must be overcome for any meaningful progress to be achieved in these historic direct talks.

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He doesn't make deals under the table