**Cyprus Prepared to Host Israel-Lebanon Trilateral Meeting, Officials Say**
*Nicosia, Cyprus – September 10, 2026* – Cyprus has expressed its readiness to host a trilateral meeting involving Israel and Lebanon, contingent upon a formal request from the parties involved. This announcement follows remarks made by Israeli President Isaac Herzog during his recent visit to Nicosia, where he highlighted the importance of fostering peace in the region.
During his talks with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace, Herzog articulated his vision for a meeting between the leaders of Cyprus, Israel, and Lebanon, describing it as a personal “dream.” He emphasized the need to take steps towards peace, suggesting that such a dialogue could pave the way for improved relations between Israel and Lebanon.
Cypriot officials have characterized Herzog’s comments as a positive and forward-looking aspiration, indicating that there is potential for dialogue between Israel and Lebanon. However, they also noted that the feasibility of such a meeting is not solely in the hands of Cyprus, as both Israel and Lebanon are currently navigating their own domestic challenges.
Should a request be made, Cyprus is prepared to facilitate the meeting, according to sources from the Cypriot government. This openness reflects Cyprus's strategic position as a neutral ground for discussions in the region.
In addition to the trilateral talks, the discussions between Herzog and Christodoulides encompassed various topics, including defense cooperation and Cyprus's procurement plans. Israel is recognized as one of Cyprus's key defense suppliers, and there is ongoing dialogue regarding what military equipment Cyprus might acquire under its armaments program. Israeli defense companies have also shown interest in establishing operations in Cyprus, potentially allowing them to access the European Union’s SAFE defense funding program.
Another significant topic addressed during the meeting was the long-standing issue of a Cyprus-Israel agreement to avoid double taxation, which has been pending since 2011. Both leaders acknowledged the importance of resolving this matter to enhance economic cooperation.
Energy matters were also at the forefront of the discussions, particularly regarding the Ishai-Aphrodite gas field. President Christodoulides underscored the urgency of this issue, while Israeli officials indicated that negotiations were nearing completion. Additionally, an update on the Great Sea Interconnector project was provided, highlighting ongoing collaboration in energy infrastructure.
The talks also touched on Israeli investments in properties located in the occupied areas of Cyprus. Cypriot sources noted a significant decline in such activities following the arrest of Simon Aykut, and they mentioned that Israel has been conducting an information campaign concerning properties in the northern part of the island.
The upcoming Israeli elections were another point of discussion, with Cypriot officials acknowledging the uncertain outcome. They expressed confidence in having prepared for any result, reflecting the historical context of relations between Cyprus and Israel.
As the situation in the region continues to evolve, the willingness of Cyprus to act as a mediator highlights its strategic role in fostering dialogue and cooperation among neighboring countries. The prospect of a trilateral meeting between Israel and Lebanon, facilitated by Cyprus, could represent a significant step towards addressing longstanding tensions and promoting stability in the Eastern Mediterranean.
For now, the focus remains on the domestic situations in both Israel and Lebanon, as well as the broader geopolitical landscape that will ultimately influence the potential for such a meeting to take place.