Arabic version: إسرائيل تبدأ محادثات مباشرة مع لبنان بعد هجمات مميتة

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he has ordered officials to begin direct negotiations with Lebanon “as soon as possible”, citing requests from Beirut as tensions remain high despite a broader regional ceasefire. This announcement comes after a devastating day of Israeli attacks that resulted in the deaths of at least 200 people and injuries to more than 1,000 in Lebanon.

According to Al Jazeera, Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the strikes, claiming they violated the US-Iran ceasefire and jeopardized negotiations. He emphasized that Tehran would not abandon its support for Lebanon.

In Iran, nationwide rallies are being held to honor the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with major leadership casualties reported, including the death of former foreign minister Kamal Kharrazi. Analysts suggest that Iran may leverage its influence over the Strait of Hormuz to seek sanctions relief and reintegrate into the global economy.

Diplomatic efforts continue, with a Pakistani-negotiated ceasefire in effect between the US and Iran. The UN chief’s envoy has been in talks with Iranian officials and is expected to continue discussions in Pakistan this weekend. Meanwhile, Israel and Lebanon are set to engage in talks in Washington next week.

In the Gulf, Saudi Arabia reported that Iranian attacks have targeted its energy infrastructure, leading to casualties and disruptions in oil production. As international scrutiny increases, calls for restraint are being made, including from the World Health Organization and Canada’s foreign minister, urging Israel to respect Lebanon’s territorial integrity.