Lebanon and Israel have initiated a new round of direct negotiations in Washington. These talks occur during a period of heightened diplomatic activity in the region. Beirut has expressed a strong determination to proceed with these discussions. However, the process is being complicated by external geopolitical factors. Specifically, Iran has decided to include Lebanon as part of its own ongoing talks with the United States. This development creates a complex diplomatic backdrop for the bilateral negotiations. The outcome remains uncertain as Lebanon balances direct talks with Iranian influence.