Israel continues strikes in Lebanon as ceasefire diplomacy faces hurdles

Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon continued on Thursday despite intensified diplomatic efforts across West Asia, with tensions remaining high and ceasefire negotiations facing growing hurdles. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier rejected Lebanese proposals for direct talks but later signalled openness to de escalation following pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump.

Hezbollah, meanwhile, continued launching rockets toward Israeli positions and accused the Lebanese government of offering free concessions to an enemy state by agreeing to negotiations while under fire. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called for a full Israeli withdrawal, saying it is essential to consolidating a ceasefire, restoring state authority, and allowing the Lebanese army to deploy along internationally recognized borders. He also stressed that negotiations must remain a sovereign Lebanese matter, as diplomatic pressure mounts from multiple sides.

The renewed diplomatic push follows what observers describe as a historic development, with the first direct Lebanon Israel talks in more than three decades held on April 14 in Washington, DC. The meeting was mediated by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and focused on Hezbollah disarmament, border security, and potential normalization steps. While Washington described the talks as a “milestone,” progress stalled after Israel refused an immediate ceasefire and Hezbollah condemned the discussions while continuing rocket fire.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth warned that the United States is prepared to resume combat against Iran if ceasefire efforts fail. “We are watching you. Your capabilities are not the same as ours. Remember, this is not a fair fight,” he said, adding that Washington would not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons and urging Tehran to “choose wisely.”