Leiter said Israel had agreed to begin “formal peace negotiations” with the Lebanese government, despite the absence of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The talks are scheduled to open Tuesday at the U.S. State Department following contacts between Israeli and Lebanese representatives.“Israel refused to discuss a ceasefire with the Hezbollah terrorist organization, which continues to attack Israel and is the main obstacle to peace between the two countries,” Leiter said in a statement.

The position contrasts with calls from Lebanese authorities and the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump for a pause in hostilities ahead of negotiations. A report citing sources familiar with the discussions said Washington and Beirut had urged Israel to halt its attacks before talks begin.

Israel launched an intensified military campaign, including airstrikes and a ground offensive in Lebanon, after Hezbollah fired rockets into northern Israel in early March, in a move linked to broader regional tensions involving Iran.

Israeli officials have maintained that the ongoing conflict in Lebanon is separate from the ceasefire arrangement between the United States and Iran, with negotiations between those two countries set to take place in Islamabad.

In the absence of a ceasefire, discussions in Washington are expected to focus on measures Israel wants the Lebanese government to take, particularly regarding efforts to curb Hezbollah’s activities.

Lebanese authorities say the conflict has killed more than 1,950 people in recent weeks, including over 350 fatalities reported on Wednesday alone, marking one of the deadliest days since the escalation began.

The appointment, warmly received across political and cultural circles, highlights a new phase of diplomacy aimed at fostering unity, understanding, and economic collaboration between the two nations.

Savaya, known for his active engagement in public service and his deep connection to the Chaldean and Middle Eastern communities in the United States, described his appointment as a “deeply humbling honor.”

Taking to Instagram, he expressed gratitude to President Trump, stating, “I am committed to strengthening the US-Iraq partnership under President Trump’s leadership and guidance. Thank you, Mr. President.”

The announcement comes at a time when the US is reaffirming its diplomatic presence in Iraq with a focus on peace, regional stability, and economic cooperation.

Savaya’s unique background and cultural roots give him a personal understanding of the historical and modern complexities shaping Iraq’s role in the region.

His dual perspective as both an Iraqi-born American and a successful entrepreneur positions him as an effective bridge between the two nations.

President Trump praised Savaya’s appointment in a post on his Truth Social platform, writing: “Mark’s deep understanding of the Iraq-US relationship and his connections in the region will help advance the interests of the American people.”

The president also commended Savaya’s contributions to his 2024 campaign in Michigan, where his outreach helped build strong community engagement and record voter participation among Muslim and Chaldean Americans.

Savaya, who has often shared images with Trump from the Oval Office, is widely respected for his philanthropy, business leadership, and community involvement.

His appointment as ambassador is viewed by many as recognition of the growing influence and contributions of Chaldean-Americans in US politics and diplomacy.

The Chaldean Center of Chicago, a nonprofit organization representing one of the largest Chaldean communities in the United States, celebrated the news with a public statement, saying: “Mark’s service reflects the values we hold dear — faith, unity, and perseverance — and stands as an inspiration to all Chaldean Americans striving to make a difference both locally and globally.”

Observers in Washington and Baghdad have responded positively to the announcement, calling it a strategic and symbolic move that emphasizes both heritage diplomacy and renewed bilateral cooperation.

With Iraq’s pivotal role in regional stability and energy development, Savaya’s appointment signals an intent to deepen political, economic, and cultural engagement between the two countries.

According to political analysts, Savaya’s entrepreneurial experience could also benefit efforts to strengthen trade, infrastructure investment, and private-sector collaboration.

His background in business and digital outreach aligns with Trump’s vision of appointing individuals who bring practical, results-driven experience to foreign policy roles.

In Baghdad, early reactions to the appointment were cautiously optimistic. Several Iraqi officials welcomed the prospect of a US envoy who shares cultural and linguistic ties with the region.

The appointment is also seen as part of a broader American strategy to rebuild trust through diplomacy grounded in shared values and mutual respect.

Savaya’s appointment carries personal significance for many Chaldean Christians, a historically persecuted community from Iraq and neighboring regions. His rise to a prominent diplomatic role symbolizes both resilience and the enduring spirit of Iraq’s Christian minority, while also showcasing America’s diversity in global leadership representation.

With his deep roots, business acumen, and public influence, Savaya’s journey from Michigan entrepreneur to US Ambassador to Iraq underscores the evolving nature of modern diplomacy — one where authenticity, community engagement, and cultural understanding stand alongside traditional policy priorities.

As the United States enters a new era of diplomatic engagement under President Trump, Savaya’s role is expected to focus on economic revival, cultural diplomacy, and regional peace initiatives, marking a significant chapter in US-Iraq relations.

In his own words, Savaya summed up his mission: “My goal is to build bridges of trust and opportunity between the United States and Iraq — to honor our shared history and to create a future rooted in cooperation and hope.”