Hezbollah rejects direct talks with Israel

A Hezbollah lawmaker, Ali Fayyad, has stated that the group will not enter direct negotiations with Israel.

He explained that Lebanon must first push for a ceasefire before any further steps can be considered.

Fayyad’s remarks came after Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said he had instructed his cabinet to begin direct talks with Lebanon as soon as possible.

According to Fayyad, Lebanon’s position should also prioritise ensuring Israeli troops withdraw from its territory and that displaced people are allowed to return to their homes.

Iran had earlier stated that there would be no ceasefire without a cessation of attacks on Lebanon, a position Israel rejected.

However, reports indicate that a line of communication between the two countries will be opened soon.