Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered his government to begin direct talks with Lebanon, he said in a statement on Thursday. Netanyahu stated that the discussions would focus on the disarmament of Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese political and militant group, while aiming to establish peaceful relations. A U.S. State Department official confirmed a meeting is scheduled for next week to discuss ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Lebanon.
Despite these discussions, Netanyahu insisted that 'there is no ceasefire in Lebanon,' following strikes targeting what the Israeli military termed Hezbollah rocket launch sites in southern Lebanon. This continues a series of airstrikes, a significant escalation since the conflict began weeks ago.
The head of the World Health Organization has raised concerns over the impact of the airstrikes on major hospitals, emphasizing the urgent need for medical evacuations amid ongoing military actions.
While Lebanese officials have called for a ceasefire, Israel maintains a military offensive, complicating potential negotiations. The extent to which the Lebanese government can negotiate with Hezbollah, noted for its military capability, remains uncertain as the group continues operations despite a ban on military activities.
As discussions approach, the humanitarian toll continues to rise, with reports indicating over 1,800 fatalities and vast displacements due to ongoing violence. Amid this backdrop, UN and various officials urge for immediate cessation of hostilities to allow meaningful dialogue.
Despite these discussions, Netanyahu insisted that 'there is no ceasefire in Lebanon,' following strikes targeting what the Israeli military termed Hezbollah rocket launch sites in southern Lebanon. This continues a series of airstrikes, a significant escalation since the conflict began weeks ago.
The head of the World Health Organization has raised concerns over the impact of the airstrikes on major hospitals, emphasizing the urgent need for medical evacuations amid ongoing military actions.
While Lebanese officials have called for a ceasefire, Israel maintains a military offensive, complicating potential negotiations. The extent to which the Lebanese government can negotiate with Hezbollah, noted for its military capability, remains uncertain as the group continues operations despite a ban on military activities.
As discussions approach, the humanitarian toll continues to rise, with reports indicating over 1,800 fatalities and vast displacements due to ongoing violence. Amid this backdrop, UN and various officials urge for immediate cessation of hostilities to allow meaningful dialogue.
