April 10, 2026 — Washington, DC. The American Task Force on Lebanon (ATFL) welcomes Israel’s decision to engage in direct negotiations with Lebanon following the offer put forward by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. This marks a critical and timely opportunity to advance de-escalation, reinforce stability, and restore Lebanon’s state authority and territorial integrity.
ATFL underscores the importance of advancing a Lebanon track that stands on its own merits, independent of ongoing talks between the United States and Iran. At the same time, ATFL reiterates its call for an immediate halt to Israeli strikes on civilian areas, which in a single day killed hundreds and caused widespread destruction across Beirut and the country, marking a deeply alarming escalation.
This moment presents a meaningful chance for Lebanon to secure the sustained support of the international community. Realizing it, however, will require the Lebanese state to take credible, concrete steps toward a clear, state-led process towards Hezbollah’s full disarmament and the reassertion of its authority while addressing Israeli security concerns. It will also require that Israel take steps toward deescalation, including committing to a permanent ceasefire, withdrawing from Lebanese territory and supporting a pathway to more stable and peaceful relations.
ATFL encourages all parties to seize this opening and advance a path grounded in diplomacy, state-to-state engagement, and long-term stability.