Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he has directed his cabinet to begin immediate direct negotiations with Lebanon.
In a statement issued on X, the Israeli premier said the instruction followed repeated appeals from Lebanon for dialogue. He said the focus of the talks would be the disarmament of Hezbollah and the establishment of peaceful relations with Israel.
Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon have already commenced. He said an immediate ceasefire with Israel remains the only solution to the present tensions, adding that the proposal has so far received a positive response.
President Aoun stressed that an end to tensions is essential for peace in the region, and said a ceasefire could play a key role in preventing further confrontation between the two countries.
