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Lebanon Demands Ceasefire Before Peace Talks With Israel Amid Rising Tensions

Lebanon has expressed openness to direct peace negotiations with Israel but insists a ceasefire must be established first. The potential talks could involve Israeli adviser Ron Dermer and US figure Jared Kushner, possibly held in Paris or Cyprus. This comes amid escalating violence, with Israeli airstrikes targeting southern Lebanese towns and Hezbollah firing missiles at advancing troops. Regional tensions are further heightened by US operations against Iranian capabilities and attacks on US bases in Iraq.

Key Points: Lebanon Open to Israel Peace Talks, Demands Ceasefire First

  • Lebanon sets ceasefire precondition
  • Israel plans major ground invasion
  • US & Israeli envoys may lead talks
  • Hezbollah clashes with Israeli forces
3 min read

Lebanon open to 'peace talks' with Israel but demands ceasefire first

Lebanon offers direct peace talks with Israel but insists on a prior ceasefire. US and Israeli officials may join as regional clashes intensify.

"a ceasefire must be implemented before negotiations can begin - Nabih Berri"

Beirut, March 15

Lebanon is open to entering direct peace talks with Israel, but insists that a ceasefire must be reached before negotiations begin, according to Al Jazeera.

The development comes as Israel threatens what could be its largest ground invasion of Lebanon since the 2006 War.

According to Al Jazeera, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has assigned his close adviser, Ron Dermer, to lead the Israeli side of the Lebanon diplomatic track. From the US side, the talks could reportedly involve Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump.

The discussions could begin within days and may take place in Paris or Cyprus, potentially involving direct, head-to-head negotiations, Al Jazeera reported.

There have also been reports that France proposed a peace plan that would require the disarmament of Hezbollah and Lebanon's recognition of Israel as conditions to end the war. However, the French Foreign Ministry has denied those reports, according to Al Jazeera.

Lebanese officials have indicated they are willing to engage in talks, but Nabih Berri, Lebanon's parliamentary speaker and a leader of the Amal Movement, said a ceasefire must be implemented before negotiations can begin.

Meanwhile, regional tensions continued to rise with military developments across West Asia.

In a post on X, United States Central Command said US forces are continuing operations against Iranian military capabilities.

Meanwhile, Press TV reported that an Iraqi resistance group released footage claiming to show an attack on US military bases in West Asia.

Press TV also reported that a US base in Iraq was on fire following a reported strike.

In another update cited by the Iranian news outlet, Iran's armed forces said they had shot down four additional drones, bringing the total number of drones downed to 118.

Earlier, militants from Hezbollah engaged with the advancing Israeli forces in southern Lebanon after air raids and artillery strikes targeted multiple towns in the region, Al Jazeera reported.

Citing the official Lebanon National News Agency, Al Jazeera reported that Israeli airstrikes and artillery fire struck several towns across southern Lebanon. The news report said air raids hit the town of Mefdoun in southern Lebanon and areas between Mefdoun and Zawtar al-Sharqiyah.

Heavy artillery shelling also targeted nearby towns, including Zawtar, Yahmar, Arnoun and Mefdoun, Al Jazeera reported.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces attempted to advance into the border town of Aita al-Shaab, where gunfire and shelling were heard during clashes.

According to Al Jazeera, militants from Hezbollah responded by firing guided missiles at the advancing Israeli troops.

Press TV reported that Hezbollah launched a barrage of rockets targeting a gathering of Israeli troops at al-Khazzan Hill.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
This is a positive development, but the involvement of Jared Kushner raises eyebrows. The US needs a more neutral, experienced mediator for such a complex regional conflict. The path to peace is fragile.
A
Arjun K
The condition of disarming Hezbollah is a non-starter for Lebanon. It's an internal matter. Just like we wouldn't accept external dictates on our security, Lebanon's sovereignty must be respected. Talks should focus on border security and mutual recognition.
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Priya S
The escalation is terrifying for civilians on both sides. Every day of fighting means more lost lives and homes destroyed. I hope the talks in Paris or Cyprus happen soon. The world cannot afford another major war.
V
Vikram M
From an Indian perspective, we know the cost of prolonged conflict. Dialogue is the only way. But Netanyahu assigning his close adviser doesn't inspire confidence—it feels like a political move, not a genuine peace effort. The threat of a ground invasion must be taken off the table first.
K
Kavya N
The reports of US strikes in Iraq and Iran shooting down drones show how quickly this can spiral. Lebanon is the immediate flashpoint, but the entire region is a tinderbox. A ceasefire is urgent not just for Lebanon and Israel, but for regional stability.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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