Lebanon Calls for Direct Talks with Israel Amid Tensions

Middle Eastern outlets stress that Beirut wants an immediate ceasefire, an end to Israeli overflights, and guarantees that Lebanon will not face future large-scale attacks. They underline deep splits inside Lebanon and Israel, with some factions seeing talks as necessary to stop bloodshed and others warning that negotiating under fire could lock in unequal terms. They expect Iran’s stance and Hezbollah’s calculations to heavily shape what Lebanon can accept in Washington.

• •The Lebanese government is preparing a list of demands that includes a ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal from disputed areas, and international guarantees.
• •Public debate in Lebanon reflects anger over civilian casualties and suspicion that talks may entrench Israeli military gains.
• •Israeli society is also divided, with some groups backing a deal and others urging continued pressure on Hezbollah.
• •Iran is urging a Lebanon truce and linking it to the release of frozen Iranian assets before engaging fully with the US.
• •Hezbollah’s position on any ceasefire terms will strongly influence how far Lebanese negotiators can compromise.