Hezbollah Insists on Indirect Negotiations Amid Ongoing Tensions with Israel
By BASSEM MROUE and FADI TAWIL
Updated [hour]:[minute] [AMPM] [timezone], [monthFull] [day], [year]
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BEIRUT (AP) — The leader of Lebanon’s militant Hezbollah group called on the government this week to pull out of direct negotiations with Israel in Washington, labeling such talks a concession and advocating for indirect dialogue instead.
The upcoming discussions aim to address the aftermath of recent hostilities and chart a path toward de-escalation between the two nations, which have been technically at war since Israel’s establishment in 1948.
Hezbollah leader urges indirect talks
Naim Kassem conveyed in a letter to Hezbollah officials that direct negotiations benefit Israel and represent a compromise by Lebanon, urging a return to the indirect methods used previously, such as during the November 2026 ceasefire negotiations.
Kassem emphasized that disputes over Hezbollah’s arms should remain internal matters, separate from any talks with Israel.
The Lebanese government has demanded the group’s disarmament following the latest escalation in early March, branding its military actions as illegal.
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