Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Benny Gantz described the 2006 ceasefire agreement as a “surrender document” during an interview, noting that Lebanon received the entire disputed territory in exchange for a vague Israeli security commitment that was never fulfilled.
Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel does not plan to hold direct talks with the Lebanese government in the coming days, citing the continued military escalation between Israel and Hezbollah. Katz added that Israel expects the Lebanese government to take serious steps to prevent Hezbollah from launching attacks.
Reports indicate that Lebanon is working to form a delegation to negotiate a ceasefire with Israel. The conflict escalated on March 2 when Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel in response to the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Since then, Israel has conducted widespread airstrikes across various regions of Lebanon and has made ground incursions into the south.
Regarding mediation efforts, sources close to negotiations confirm that preparations are underway to form the delegation, though no specific agenda, timing, or location for talks between Paris and Cyprus has been set yet. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has proposed negotiations, receiving support from European nations, but emphasized the need for a commitment from Israel regarding a ceasefire or truce.
French President Emmanuel Macron previously called for direct talks with Beirut, offering to facilitate and host the meetings. Since the conflict began in March, Aoun has proposed negotiations, though no official response has been received from Israel. Reports suggest France has proposed a comprehensive agreement to end the ongoing war that would include recognition of Israel by Lebanon. However, the French Foreign Ministry has clarified that there is currently “no French plan” to end the war between Israel and Hezbollah.
