Netanyahu pushes for Israel-Lebanon talks as Iran accuses Israel of ceasefire violations

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the launch of direct negotiations with Lebanon , even as tensions escalate following deadly airstrikes that Iran says breach an already fragile ceasefire. In a statement, Netanyahu confirmed he had instructed his cabinet to begin talks “as soon as possible,” with a focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon. The move comes amid growing international concern over the risk of a wider regional conflict. Despite the diplomatic push, violence has continued. Israeli airstrikes on Beirut and surroun

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the launch of direct negotiations with Lebanon, even as tensions escalate following deadly airstrikes that Iran says breach an already fragile ceasefire.

In a statement, Netanyahu confirmed he had instructed his cabinet to begin talks “as soon as possible,” with a focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon. The move comes amid growing international concern over the risk of a wider regional conflict.

Despite the diplomatic push, violence has continued. Israeli airstrikes on Beirut and surrounding areas have left at least 203 people dead and more than 1,000 injured, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. Rescue operations are ongoing, with widespread destruction reported in residential neighborhoods.

Iran, a key ally of Hezbollah, strongly condemned the attacks. President Masoud Pezeshkian described the strikes as a “blatant violation” of the ceasefire agreement recently announced between the United States and Iran. He warned that Tehran remains ready to respond if tensions continue to rise.

The ceasefire, intended to reduce hostilities and pave the way for broader negotiations, has been marked by confusion over its scope particularly whether it includes Lebanon. This uncertainty has further complicated efforts to stabilize the situation.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu has maintained a firm stance, stating that Israel will continue to target Hezbollah positions wherever necessary. The Israeli military has also issued evacuation orders in parts of Beirut, signaling the possibility of further strikes.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has called for an immediate ceasefire followed by direct negotiations, describing dialogue as the only viable path to peace. Lebanon is also preparing to raise the issue at the United Nations, citing serious violations of international law.

As global powers urge restraint, the gap between diplomatic efforts and military action remains wide. With the ceasefire under strain and casualties rising, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether dialogue can overcome the deepening crisis.