Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his approval to open direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible, in response to what he described as “repeated requests” from the Lebanese side on this matter.

Netanyahu explained that he issued his directives during a meeting of the government’s security cabinet to begin these negotiations, noting that they will focus on disarming Hezbollah and arranging peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon.

He added that Israel “appreciates” the call made by the Lebanese Prime Minister for disarmament in Beirut, referring to a Lebanese position that aligns with the conditions Tel Aviv sets for any potential negotiation process.