On December 19, 2025, delegates from Israel and Lebanon sat down in Naqoura for a U.S.-mediated security dialogue aimed at charting a path toward Hezbollah’s disarmament and the safe return of residents to southern border villages.
The Israeli delegation was led by Yosef Dreznin, Deputy Director for Foreign Policy at the National Security Council, while Lebanon’s former ambassador to the United States, Simon Karam, headed the Lebanese side. Both parties emphasized a shared interest in countering Hezbollah’s armed presence and fostering long-term stability.
A statement from the Israeli Foreign Policy Council highlighted discussions on advancing cross-border economic projects to benefit communities on both sides. Meanwhile, the Lebanese presidency underscored the humanitarian imperative of allowing displaced villagers to return safely to their homes.
The talks build on a ceasefire in force since November 27, 2024, which, while broadly holding, has seen occasional Israeli strikes aimed at neutralizing perceived Hezbollah threats. Earlier this month, leaders from both countries met directly in Naqoura – an outreach described by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "a first attempt to lay the groundwork for relations and economic cooperation."
For young global citizens and entrepreneurs watching the region, these dialogues offer a glimpse into how security concerns and development initiatives can intersect. As both nations weigh disarmament steps alongside potential investments in infrastructure and trade, the path ahead will hinge on sustained engagement and mutual trust.
With communities waiting to return and economic plans on the table, the Naqoura talks mark a cautiously optimistic moment – one where conflict resolution and growth go hand in hand across a historically tense border.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
