Israel And Lebanon Agree To Direct Peace Talks In Washington Next Week
Key Takeaways
- Lebanon and Israel to hold direct peace talks in Washington next week
- Israel rejects discussing a ceasefire with Hezbollah during the Washington talks
- Death toll in the conflict has surpassed 2,000
Israel-Lebanon Talks Begin
Israel and Lebanon agreed to begin direct peace negotiations in Washington next week.
“Israel says it will not discuss a ceasefire with Hezbollah when it meets Lebanese officials for talks in Washington next week, as Israeli forces launch new deadly attacks on southern Lebanon”
Netanyahu announced the talks would focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations.
The Lebanese government confirmed direct contact via their ambassadors in Washington.
The Trump administration is mediating the talks.
Netanyahu insisted there is no ceasefire in Lebanon.
Hezbollah Rejects Talks
Hezbollah categorically rejected the negotiations.
Hassan Fadlallah called them a blatant violation of the national pact.
Hundreds of Hezbollah supporters protested in Beirut.
The Lebanese Health Ministry said the war's death toll had surpassed 2,000.
Israel continued its airstrikes on southern Lebanon.
France Excluded from Talks
Israel excluded France from the negotiations.
“Trump says Iran's handling of Strait of Hormuz is 'not the agreement we have' US President Donald Trump has accused Iran of doing a "very poor job" in its handling of oil passing through the pivotal Strait of Hormuz, arguing it was "not the agreement we have"”
An Israeli official cited France's conduct over the past year.
French Foreign Minister Barrot called Israeli attacks unacceptable.
The Arab League reaffirmed its support for Lebanon-Israel negotiations.
The Arab League called for Lebanon to be included in the ceasefire.
US Pushes for Pause
The Lebanese government and Trump administration asked Israel for a pause in attacks.
The Lebanese suggested returning to the Nov. 2024 ceasefire understandings.
The U.S. supports the Lebanese request.
Netanyahu is reviewing the request but has not made a decision.
The Israeli government would rather hold negotiations under fire.
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