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, victims of a conflict their country neither sought nor wanted. This time, however, amid the renewed suffering, destruction and mass displacement of Lebanon’s citizens, a cautious hope is taking hold that a historic peace initiative proposed by the Lebanese government could pave the way to an end to the country’s decades of turmoil.

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

LONDON: Work has reportedly begun in Lebanon to assemble a delegation that could represent the country in potential negotiations with Israel, as Beirut pursues diplomatic avenues…