Story perspectives

US, France, Saudi Officials Meet to Curb Israeli-Hezbollah Conflict

12/17/2025

Center

US, France, Saudi Talks

Senior officials from the United States, France, and Saudi Arabia will meet in Paris to discuss preventing a potential Israeli operation against Hezbollah in Lebanon after a December 31 disarmament deadline.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified strikes against Hezbollah, including targeting two operatives in southern Lebanon.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun seeks an extension of the disarmament deadline as diplomatic efforts uphold the November 2024 ceasefire.

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Israel Strikes Hezbollah

Israel's airstrikes in southern Lebanon continue against Hezbollah operatives and infrastructure despite the November 2024 ceasefire.
Human Rights Watch reports the strikes have hit civilian reconstruction, destroying over 360 pieces of heavy machinery and hindering the return of more than 64,000 displaced residents.
The Lebanese government faces pressure to disarm Hezbollah while weighing civil unrest risks against external escalation, and Hezbollah's cohesion is weakening as Shiite supporters shift allegiance to Amal.

History

Historical Context

The 2006 Lebanon War, ignited by Hezbollah's cross-border raid on July 12, resulted in a month-long conflict that ended with UN Security Council Resolution 1701 on August 14. This resolution mandated Hezbollah's disarmament and the deployment of the Lebanese army, which has struggled to maintain control. The ongoing tensions highlight the challenges of enforcing disarmament and regional stability, exacerbated by recent airstrikes destroying over 360 pieces of machinery.

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US, France, Saudi Talks

Senior officials from the United States, France, and Saudi Arabia will meet in Paris to discuss preventing a potential Israeli operation against Hezbollah in Lebanon after a December 31 disarmament deadline.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified strikes against Hezbollah, including targeting two operatives in southern Lebanon.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun seeks an extension of the disarmament deadline as diplomatic efforts uphold the November 2024 ceasefire.

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