The latest round of US-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon regarding their maritime border dispute has yielded the least progress to date, according to sources. Both Jerusalem and Beirut are reportedly frustrated by the potential terms of a developing US-Iran deal concerning Lebanon. A key point of contention is Israel’s concern that Iran will be permitted to impose fees on passage through the Strait of Hormuz as part of any final agreement. Former President Trump has reportedly insisted that Tehran will not be allowed to levy such charges. The stalled negotiations cast doubt on a swift resolution to the long-standing border dispute, which is crucial for unlocking offshore energy resources in the region. The lack of productivity in this round suggests increased difficulties in bridging the gap between the two sides’ positions.
