No progress in talks with Israel as Lebanon reiterates ceasefire-based position

Report by Nada Andraos, English adaptation by Karine Keuchkerian

No three-way presidential meeting is expected in Baabda in the foreseeable future; no new developments are anticipated in direct negotiations with Israel in Washington. What is certain, however, is that there is no rupture between Baabda and Ain al-Tineh.

Sources told LBCI that contact took place on Tuesday between President Joseph Aoun and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, focusing on reaffirming cooperation to strengthen the internal situation and prevent any slide into internal confrontation.

Informed sources said communication channels between Baabda and Ain al-Tineh remain open regardless of the two sides’ positions on direct negotiations with Israel, with both leaders understanding each other’s stance on the issue.

Meanwhile, Aoun continues contacts with U.S. officials to pressure Israel to abide by the ceasefire and halt destruction, explosions, and the targeting of civilians, paramedics, and military personnel.

This position was conveyed by Lebanese Ambassador Nada Moawad during a second meeting with Israeli officials at the White House and remains unchanged as long as Israel has not complied with any of Lebanon’s demands.

According to sources, there are no new developments in the negotiation file. President Aoun said Lebanon is awaiting the United States to set a date to begin negotiations, adding that the Lebanese file is now on the desk of the U.S. president, describing it as an opportunity that must be seized.

The president also reiterated that every step taken regarding negotiations has been coordinated with Lebanon’s parliament speaker and prime minister, contrary to what is being reported in the media.

Responding to criticism that the state had approved a U.S. State Department statement, Aoun said its content is identical to the text adopted in the 2024 ceasefire agreement, which was accepted by all parties. He stressed that the only path to security for Israel is full implementation of the ceasefire, followed by a transition to negotiations.

President Aoun’s remarks were responded to by Speaker Berri through a statement issued by his media office, in which he denied what was attributed to Aoun, describing it as “inaccurate, if not otherwise,” including references to the November 2024 agreement and the issue of negotiations.

While communication channels between Baabda and Ain al-Tineh remain open, those between Baabda and Haret Hreik are still cut. 

In the latest statement reflecting Hezbollah’s position, MP Hassan Fadlallah reiterated the group’s rejection of direct negotiations with Israel, saying they would not receive any national cover regardless of what Lebanese authorities do, and that the government must return to its people.