Israel's Stance on Ceasefire Talks with Lebanon Amid Ongoing Conflict

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that there will be no ceasefire negotiations with Lebanon, emphasizing ongoing military actions against Hezbollah and Iranian proxies. This announcement follows accusations against Iran and Hezbollah for recent civilian attacks. Despite initial plans for talks in the U.S., Hezbollah's opposition and Iran's dismissal of separate negotiations complicate the situation. As violence escalates, Israel's airstrikes have resulted in significant casualties in Beirut, raising concerns over the potential for further conflict. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of war and diplomacy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 10, 2026, 17:28 IST

No Ceasefire Negotiations with Lebanon, Says Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that there will be no ceasefire discussions with Lebanon, asserting that Israeli forces will persist in their operations against Hezbollah and Iranian proxies. This statement follows accusations from Israel that Iran and Hezbollah were responsible for attacks that resulted in the deaths of at least 40 individuals. On Thursday, Netanyahu had indicated that he directed his government to pursue direct dialogue with Lebanon after multiple requests from Beirut. Israel claims that Hezbollah was seeking a ceasefire just as Israeli forces launched one of their most significant offensives, which led to the elimination of a senior commander's aide and substantial losses for the militant group. Reports suggested that ceasefire discussions between Israel and Lebanon were initially set to occur in the United States, but Hezbollah opposed direct negotiations. Additionally, Iran dismissed these developments, stating they were not in favor of separate ceasefire talks while already engaged in discussions with the United States. These talks are anticipated to occur over the upcoming weekend.

Israel Intensifies Attacks on Beirut Following Iran's Ceasefire Announcement

Israel's determination that the ceasefire in Iran does not extend to its conflict with Hezbollah, which is fighting alongside its ally Iran, poses a threat to the agreement. On the day the truce was declared, Israel launched airstrikes on Beirut, resulting in over 300 fatalities, according to Lebanon's Health Ministry. This marked the deadliest day in Lebanon since the onset of the conflict on February 28. Former President Trump stated on Thursday that he urged Netanyahu to reduce the intensity of the strikes. On Friday morning, the Israeli military reported targeting around 10 launch sites in Lebanon that had previously fired rockets into northern Israel.

Iran Issues Warning Over Continued Israeli Attacks

Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, cautioned on Thursday that ongoing Israeli assaults on Hezbollah would incur 'explicit costs and strong responses.' Netanyahu, on his part, mentioned that he had authorized negotiations with Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah militants and foster relations between the two nations, which have technically been in a state of war since Israel's establishment in 1948. As of early Friday afternoon, the Lebanese government had not yet responded. The timing and venue of the talks were initially reported by Axios.

In the aftermath of Israel's heavy bombardment, residents sifted through the debris of their homes, attempting to salvage furniture and personal belongings. Some expressed relief that they had only lost their homes and possessions, unlike others who had suffered greater losses. 'There is no substitute for family,' remarked 35-year-old Wissam Tabila. 'Everything else can be replaced.'

With inputs from AP