Direct talks for Israel and Lebanon

The historic meeting in Washington follows weeks of intense fighting between the Israeli military and Hezbollah.

While both sides have expressed a willingness to negotiate, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cautioned that forces will continue to strike targets until a sustainable peace is achieved.

The talks are seen as a potential 'chink of light' in a region roiled by the wider U.S.-Iran conflict.

Mediators hope that a successful agreement between Israel and Lebanon could serve as a blueprint for de-escalating other regional flashpoints.