Daijiworld Media Network – Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv, Apr 10: Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted that there is “no ceasefire” in Lebanon and pledged to continue military operations with “full force” against Hezbollah.
“I wish to inform you: There is no ceasefire in Lebanon. We are continuing to strike Hezbollah with full force, and we will not stop until we restore your security,” Netanyahu stated.
The remarks come amid escalating tensions in the region, as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a fresh wave of strikes targeting Hezbollah’s launch sites in Lebanon. The IDF confirmed the development in a post on X, saying operations against the militant group are ongoing.
Netanyahu also revealed that he has directed the Israeli Cabinet to initiate direct negotiations with Lebanon, aiming at two key objectives — the disarmament of Hezbollah and the pursuit of a “historic peace agreement” between the two nations.
“Following repeated requests from the Lebanese government, I instructed the Cabinet to begin direct negotiations with Lebanon to achieve disarmament of Hezbollah and a historic peace agreement,” he said.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office noted that the move comes after repeated overtures from Lebanon to open talks, even as Israeli strikes continue. Israel also acknowledged a recent call by Lebanon’s leadership to demilitarise Beirut, describing it as a potentially significant diplomatic signal.
Meanwhile, Joseph Aoun stressed that a ceasefire remains the only viable solution to the ongoing conflict. According to reports, he said efforts toward a ceasefire and direct negotiations have already begun and received a “positive response.”
The situation is further complicated by differing interpretations of a fragile ceasefire linked to Iran and the United States. While Tehran has indicated that the truce should include a halt to Israeli operations in Lebanon, both Washington and Israel have maintained that the agreement does not extend to Lebanese territory.
The conflicting positions have added uncertainty to diplomatic efforts, raising concerns over a potential escalation and the risk of the broader ceasefire arrangement collapsing.