A senior US diplomat on Saturday urged Lebanon to begin direct peace talks with Israel, as tensions rise following renewed Israeli strikes on Hezbollah targets nearly a year after the ceasefire.
Although a truce was reached in November 2024, Israeli troops still occupy five areas in southern Lebanon and continue aerial bombardments.
President Joseph Aoun accused Israel of intensifying attacks instead of engaging with Beirut’s offer for dialogue.
US envoy Tom Barrack stated that direct negotiations could help defuse the situation, though Lebanese leaders remain “understandably cautious.”
He acknowledged Hezbollah’s weakened military state but noted the group’s enduring financial and arms strength. Barrack added that Washington would urge Israel “to act reasonably” if Lebanon entered direct talks.
The US hopes Lebanon might follow Syria’s example in pursuing a security agreement with Israel.
