Israel says it is ready to begin direct negotiations with Lebanon, as diplomatic efforts continue around a fragile ceasefire and tensions remain high across the region. The latest developments come after Israel’s bombing of Lebanon following the US-Iran ceasefire drew condemnation and renewed scrutiny of the wider conflict.
Lebanon’s president has said that a ceasefire must be in place before any talks can begin. That position underscores the gap between the parties as efforts continue to move from confrontation toward diplomacy.
In remarks also reported by Reuters, the UK foreign minister, Yvette Cooper, said Lebanon must be included in any ceasefire agreement. Cooper also said shipping through the Strait of Hormuz must be toll-free, adding another diplomatic angle to discussions that have increasingly focused on regional trade routes as well as military escalation.
Tehran has proposed fees or tolls on vessels seeking safe passage through the strait, a vital shipping lane. On Wednesday, Donald Trump suggested that the US and Iran could collect tolls in a joint venture. The White House, however, said its priority was reopening the strait without limitations.
Trump has also expressed optimism about the ceasefire, reportedly saying that Iran’s leaders “talk much differently” in private meetings. The comment reflects the continuing uncertainty around public statements and behind-the-scenes discussions as negotiators try to hold the ceasefire together.
The latest round of diplomacy comes amid continuing concern that the ceasefire could unravel if the wider regional disputes are not addressed. Lebanon’s role, and the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, have both emerged as central issues in the negotiations.
The discussion over how and when talks might begin remains unresolved. For now, Lebanon is insisting that the ceasefire comes first, while Israel is signalling openness to direct negotiations. At the same time, the UK is pushing for Lebanon’s inclusion, and Washington is focused on restoring unrestricted access to the Strait of Hormuz.
The remarks add to a fast-moving diplomatic picture shaped by military action, ceasefire efforts and questions over regional shipping. With positions still divided, the coming talks are likely to be closely watched by governments across the Middle East and beyond.
And my principles and values made sure that our decisions were that we wouldn’t get involved in the action without a lawful basis, without a viable, thought-through plan.
