Israel and Lebanon are reportedly preparing for rare direct talks aimed at ending the latest escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, with negotiations expected in the coming days. Lebanese officials said a delegation is being formed, though key details such as timing, location, and a ceasefire framework remain unresolved. Israel has indicated it is willing to negotiate even as fighting continues, while Lebanon is seeking a full truce before formal discussions begin.

France has expressed readiness to facilitate the talks in Paris, and Cyprus has also been mentioned as a შესაძლiable venue. A report claiming that France drafted a comprehensive plan requiring Lebanon to recognize Israel and formally end the state of war dating back to 1948 was denied by Paris. However, other reports suggest a proposal under discussion would include mutual commitments to sovereignty, disarming Hezbollah, Israeli troop withdrawals from captured areas, and steps toward a permanent non-aggression agreement.

Despite diplomatic 움직ments, violence has persisted. Hezbollah has launched dozens of rockets and drones toward northern Israel, while Israeli airstrikes have targeted Hezbollah command centers in southern Lebanon and Beirut. The Israeli military has also expanded ground operations in southern Lebanon, saying it is dismantling militant infrastructure as both sides brace for the possibility of a broader conflict even as talks loom.