Ceasefire in Jeopardy: New Talks Between Lebanon and the U.S.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. They discussed the possibility of a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Despite cautious optimism and recent contacts, the parties have not yet confirmed even a possible high-level meeting, Al Jazeera reports.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun held a telephone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The main topic was a possible ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon amid the escalating situation.
According to diplomatic sources, the parties discussed the prospects for a truce and next steps. Talks at a lower level have already taken place in recent days, raising hopes that they could lead to something more.
In particular, the possibility of a meeting between Israeli and Lebanese leaders is being discussed. If it takes place, it will be the first such contact in 34 years. However, so far neither side has officially confirmed that such a meeting is actually being prepared.
The U.S. is trying to influence the situation and is pressuring Israel to halt its attacks. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already made it clear that he is not currently prepared to stop military operations.
Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed confidence that the parties could sit down at the negotiating table as early as Thursday. However, neither Israel nor Lebanon has confirmed this. The situation remains tense. Despite talks and diplomatic signals, real agreements are still a long way off.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hagset also stated that American troops in the Middle East are ready to resume combat operations if Iran does not agree to a peace deal.
As a result of the Israeli strike, the Qasimiyeh Bridge, which connected southern and northern Lebanon, was severely damaged. This has complicated the delivery of humanitarian aid and effectively cut off part of the population.
The U.S. stated that it would use force against ships attempting to circumvent the blockade of Iran.
Israel stated that it had eliminated two armed individuals in the northern part of the Gaza Strip.
At least two Iranian tankers managed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, likely using a detour route despite U.S. surveillance.
