Israel and Lebanon are set to hold talks in Washington on Tuesday, marking the first formal contact between the two countries which have no diplomatic relations. A ceasefire remains distant, as Israel states it will not discuss halting fighting with Hezbollah, considered the main obstacle to peace.
Israel has urged Lebanon’s government to disarm Hezbollah, a move seen as potentially destabilizing and risking civil war. Despite ongoing peace talks initiated by the US and Iran, Tehran has stated it will not negotiate until Israel halts its bombing campaign in Lebanon.
Israeli strikes continue to target areas in southern Lebanon near the border, generating smoke over villages. Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated approval for a potential peace deal with Lebanon, contingent on two conditions.
Lebanese authorities report over 1,950 people have been killed in Israeli strikes, including over 350 on the first day of the US-Iran ceasefire effort.