Lebanon's government is holding talks with American officials in Washington this week to try to stop Israeli military strikes. The meetings come as Israeli forces continue attacking targets inside Lebanon. Both countries want the United States to help push for a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanese armed groups.
The conflict started because Israeli military forces were responding to attacks from a group called Hezbollah, which is based in Lebanon. The violence has grown over several months, and thousands of people have had to leave their homes. Lebanon's leaders believe that direct negotiations in Washington, with American help, might be their best chance to stop the fighting.
Ordinary Lebanese people, especially families living near the border with Israel, are most affected by the strikes. Hospitals and schools have been damaged, and many workers cannot reach their jobs. The Lebanese government wants protections for its citizens and an agreement that the military operations will end.
American officials will listen to both Lebanon and Israel's positions over the coming days. The United States has been trying to broker peace deals in the Middle East for many years. If these Washington talks do not produce a deal, the fighting could continue to get worse, which would create a larger regional crisis.