Israel, Lebanon may hold direct talks soon

BEIRUT: Israel and Lebanon may hold direct talks in the coming days, according to a report by Haaretz newspaper. If this happens, it would be an important diplomatic step because the two countries have officially been in a state of war since 1948.

Three Lebanese officials said that the government in Beirut is preparing a delegation for the talks, but a date has not been decided yet. One official said Lebanon first wants to know whether Israel will agree to a complete ceasefire before negotiations start. This condition was proposed by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

The Israeli government has not yet commented on the report.

Background of the conflict

Lebanon became involved in the latest conflict on March 2, when the Iran-backed group Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel. The group said the attacks were revenge for the killing of Iran’s supreme leader.

Israel responded with military strikes in Lebanon. According to reports, more than 800 people have been killed, and around 800,000 people have been forced to leave their homes.

President Aoun said Lebanon is willing to hold direct talks with Israel to try to end the war.

Political tensions in Lebanon

The talks come at a time of growing tensions inside Lebanon about Hezbollah’s role as an armed group. The Lebanese government recently banned Hezbollah’s military activities, but the group rejected the decision and continued launching rockets at Israel.

An Israeli official told Reuters that Israel may intensify its military campaign against Hezbollah even if attacks on Iran decrease.

Possible role of the US

According to the Haaretz report, the talks may focus on stopping the fighting and possibly disarming Hezbollah.

The report also said that Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump, could be involved in the negotiations. Israel’s delegation may be led by Ron Dermer, a close ally of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The talks could take place in Paris or Cyprus.

Hezbollah’s response

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said the group is ready for a long conflict. He said any solution would require Israel to stop attacks, withdraw from Lebanese territory, and release prisoners.

Israeli warning about ambulances

The Israeli military also warned that it may strike ambulances or medical facilities if they are used by Hezbollah for military purposes. Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee said such use would violate international law.

Hezbollah denied the accusation.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry says at least 26 medics and emergency workers have been killed in Israeli strikes since March 2.

Under international law, hospitals and medical facilities are protected, but they can lose that protection if they are used for military activities.