Metro53 - Tel Aviv (Web Desk): Joseph Aoun has stated that direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon have officially begun, emphasizing that a ceasefire is the only viable solution to the ongoing conflict.
In his statement, President Joseph Aoun said that the talks with Israel have started and a positive response has been received so far. He stressed that the current situation can only be resolved through a ceasefire between the two countries.
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had directed authorities to initiate direct talks with Lebanon at the earliest. He stated that Israel would begin negotiations “as soon as possible,” citing repeated demands from Lebanon for direct dialogue.
Meanwhile, Lebanon has sought Pakistan’s support to help end Israeli attacks. According to an official statement, Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned Israel’s ongoing aggression against Lebanon and expressed sorrow over the loss of thousands of precious lives. He reiterated that Pakistan is actively engaged in sincere efforts for regional peace, including facilitating negotiations between Iran and the United States.
The Lebanese Prime Minister thanked Pakistan for its peace efforts.
Separately, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that continued attacks on Lebanon would render ceasefire negotiations meaningless. He stated that Israeli strikes violate potential agreements and cautioned that ongoing aggression could derail diplomatic progress.
It is worth noting that Pakistan’s role in facilitating a recent ceasefire between Iran and the United States has been appreciated globally. Meanwhile, a national day of mourning is being observed in Lebanon following heavy casualties from recent Israeli attacks.