Israel to begin direct talks with Lebanon, says Benjamin Netanyahu

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that, in light of Lebanon’s repeated requests to open direct negotiations with Israel, he has instructed the cabinet to begin direct talks with Lebanon as soon as possible.

He added that the proposed negotiations will focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon.

Netanyahu also noted that Israel appreciates the Lebanese Prime Minister’s recent call to demilitarise Beirut.
The announcement comes as Israel continues bombing targets in Lebanon despite a recently agreed ceasefire between the United States and Iran. There is confusion over whether Lebanon was included in that ceasefire: Iranian officials have claimed Lebanon was part of the deal, but the United States and Israel have categorically denied that the ceasefire covers hostilities in Lebanon, saying the agreement does not apply to the conflict with Hezbollah.
Earlier today, Israeli Prime Minister had posted on X that Israel continues to strike Hezbollah “with force, precision, and determination.” He said that in Beirut, Israel eliminated Ali Youssef Kharshi, described as the personal secretary of Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem and one of his close aides.

Also Read: Israeli military says it has killed nephew of Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem

Netanyahu had also stated that overnight, the Israel Defense Forces struck multiple targets in southern Lebanon, including crossings used to transfer weapons, as well as weapons depots, launchers, and Hezbollah headquarters.

Iran warns – Israel actions undermine ceasefire

While addressing Israel’s continued attacks on Hezbollah, earlier today Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Israel’s renewed incursion into Lebanon has violated a two-week ceasefire, warning of possible retaliation that could further escalate tensions in West Asia ahead of talks in Islamabad over the weekend.

In a post on social media, Pezeshkian described the move as a “dangerous sign of deception” and said Iran would not abandon its allies in Lebanon. He added that the continuation of such actions would render negotiations meaningless, stating that Iran remains prepared and committed to supporting its regional partners.