Netanyahu orders direct peace talks with Lebanon

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed his cabinet to begin direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible. The talks, which are expected to start next week, will reportedly be hosted in Washington. According to reports, the primary focus of these negotiations will be the disarmament of Hezbollah and the establishment of peaceful relations between the two countries. This development comes amid intense military escalation, with India Today reporter Ashraf Wani noting that Lebanon has recently witnessed its bloodiest day, reporting over 250 deaths following more than 150 Israeli airstrikes. The announcement follows international pressure and reports of US President Donald Trump asking the Israeli Prime Minister to de-escalate attacks.