Lebanon and Israel to Resume Civilian-Led Ceasefire Talks on December 19

Lebanon and Israel will restart negotiations over their disputed border next week. The talks aim to establish a lasting ceasefire. The announcement came from Lebanese President Nabih Berri. He stated that an initial meeting in the southern town of Naqoura has "paved the way for upcoming sessions." Those formal negotiations will begin on December 19. These are indirect talks, mediated by U.S. officials. Unlike past military discussions, this round will be led by civilian negotiators from both countries. The focus is a permanent halt to hostilities along the United Nations-patrolled border, known as the Blue Line. Tensions have remained high since the 2006 war between Israel and the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah. Recent months have seen repeated exchanges of fire, raising fears of a broader conflict.