JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Thursday that he has directed his government to pursue direct peace negotiations with Lebanon, with a primary focus on dismantling Hezbollah’s military capabilities.
Speaking in a public statement, Netanyahu referenced Lebanon’s ongoing requests for dialogue, saying “In light of Lebanon’s repeated requests to open direct negotiations with Israel, I instructed the cabinet yesterday to start direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible.” He added that “The negotiations will focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon.”
Lebanese officials have not yet responded to Netanyahu’s announcement.
Earlier Thursday, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun had called for an end to hostilities, stating that “the only solution to the situation in Lebanon is to achieve a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, followed by direct negotiations between them.” Aoun indicated he was pursuing diplomatic channels that were gaining “positive” reception from the international community.
The current conflict escalated after Hezbollah, backed by Iran, launched attacks against Israel beginning March 2nd, prompting Israel to respond with a major military campaign. Lebanese government figures report that Israeli military operations have resulted in approximately 1,700 deaths and forced more than one million residents from their homes.
Intelligence sources indicate that at least 400 Hezbollah militants have been eliminated in the fighting, while the group has launched hundreds of rockets and drone attacks targeting Israeli territory.
