Israel is said to be ready to begin direct negotiations with Lebanon, while regional diplomacy continues to revolve around a fragile ceasefire and the wider fallout from the conflict.
Lebanon’s president has said a ceasefire must be in place before any talks can take place. That position comes as international pressure grows for a broader agreement that addresses the situation in Lebanon as well as wider regional tensions.
In comments reported by Reuters, the UK foreign minister, Yvette Cooper, said Lebanon must be included in any ceasefire agreement. She also said shipping through the Strait of Hormuz must be toll-free.
The Strait of Hormuz has become part of the diplomatic discussion amid ceasefire talks. Tehran has proposed fees or tolls on vessels passing through the waterway as a way to ensure safe passage. On Wednesday, Donald Trump suggested the US and Iran could collect tolls in a joint venture, while the White House said the main priority was reopening the strait without limitations.
Trump has also reportedly said he is optimistic about the ceasefire, despite the fragility of the situation. According to the reports, he claimed Iran’s leaders “talk much differently” in private meetings.
The ceasefire has already prompted condemnation over Israel’s bombing of Lebanon after the US-Iran ceasefire. The latest developments underline how quickly the truce is being tested, with political leaders now trying to prevent further escalation while keeping diplomatic channels open.
There have also been comments about the legal and strategic basis for any military action. “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,” one remark said.
With direct talks under discussion, a ceasefire still uncertain in practice, and disputes continuing over the Strait of Hormuz, the coming hours may prove crucial for whether diplomacy can hold. For now, Lebanon’s role in any agreement remains a central issue, and the White House is emphasizing access to the shipping route without restrictions.
Further updates are expected as negotiations continue and regional governments weigh their next steps.
