Raya Jalabi

And that seems to have pushed Washington to apply some kind of pressure on Israel.

So since last Wednesday, there haven't been any major attacks on Beirut, although the attacks have continued across southern Lebanon quite violently.

So with all that in mind, I mean, what's the state of diplomacy?

Well...

Today we'll see historic talks happen between Israel and Lebanon's envoys to Washington.

These talks are being overseen by the State Department.

And they're historic because they're the first direct talks between the two countries, which have never held diplomatic relationships since 1983.

So it's a really big deal.

I mean, most people would say no.

I think both states are expected to list their respective grievances.

The problem is, I think beyond listing grievances, I don't really see a path forward for these talks and nor do many analysts and politicians that I speak to.

The issue of Hezbollah and Lebanon is relatively intractable.

So it's hard to see how the Lebanese state can offer anything that will satisfy Israel.

And Israel is not giving any indication that it's willing to give anything to the Lebanese state, including a cessation of violence.