Washington Reports Significant Progress in Lebanese–Israeli Negotiations

2026.06.25 - 15:21

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that ongoing negotiations between Lebanon and Israel have made tangible progress, noting that the outcome of the latest round of talks in Washington was “very positive,” with growing expectations of a possible declaration of intent between the two sides in the near future.

Speaking at a press conference in Manama following the U.S.–Gulf ministerial meeting, Rubio said discussions have not stalled and continue to build on the progress achieved, expressing optimism about further steps toward additional understandings.

The U.S. secretary of state stressed that Washington remains in close coordination with its regional allies, adding that any future arrangements or regional understandings will take into account the interests, security, and stability of Gulf partners.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Rubio reiterated Washington’s opposition to any fees being imposed on maritime navigation, stressing that the strait is an international waterway where freedom of passage must remain guaranteed under international law and norms.

He noted that the meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council foreign ministers reflected broad agreement on the importance of protecting international shipping lanes and maintaining regional stability, adding that the U.S. administration will brief its Gulf partners gradually and transparently on developments in any understandings with Iran.

Rubio also stressed that U.S. President Donald Trump has multiple options available in dealing with any potential violations of commitments by Tehran, while reaffirming that Washington continues to pursue a diplomatic path without compromising the security of its allies.

He concluded that achieving regional stability requires addressing existing security challenges alongside political and diplomatic tracks, arguing that ongoing de-escalation and negotiations represent an important opportunity to reduce tensions in the region.