WASHINGTON: Israel has rejected diplomatic overtures by Lebanon to halt its escalating offensive against the Hezbollah militant group, demanding negotiations only take place “under fire,” the Financial Times reported on Tuesday, citing three people with knowledge of the matter. The talks have not materialized because of disagreements over sequencing, with Beirut demanding there be a “cessation of fire” before any meeting takes place and the Israeli government wanting only to discuss the possibility of a cessation, the newspaper said. Reuters could not immediately verify the report.

He also condemned "those who seek to drag Lebanon into a regional conflict, ignoring the will of the majority of its citizens tired of the war and its consequences."

President Aoun outlines a path towards "permanent security and stability", as Israeli strikes targeting Hezbollah continue.

WASHINGTON: Israel has rejected diplomatic overtures by Lebanon to halt its escalating offensive against the Hezbollah militant group, demanding negotiations only take place…

BEIRUT/LONDON: As a Lebanese delegation starts taking shape to hold direct talks with Israel, the people of Lebanon remain trapped in the crossfire between Israel and Hezbollah,…

BEIRUT: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Friday he had not received a response to his offer to negotiate directly with Israel to try to halt its war with Hezbollah in Lebanon.…