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Lebanon's president refuses to speak with Netanyahu
U.S. officials pressed for direct talks as Rubio backed ceasefire efforts and Lebanese sources said no call is planned.
- On Thursday, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun declined a proposed phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, rejecting U.S. mediation efforts. President Donald Trump had announced the planned discussion late Wednesday, seeking to create "a little breathing room" between the nations.
- Aoun reportedly refused the call after internal consultations with officials, including Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, amid ongoing Israeli ground incursions. Lebanon has repeatedly stressed that negotiations must be preceded by a ceasefire.
- Lebanon's embassy in Washington formally informed the Trump administration that Aoun would not speak with Netanyahu, preventing the first direct dialogue between the leaders in 34 years. Minister Gila Gamliel had previously expected the call to proceed Thursday.
- The refusal complicates U.S. mediation efforts, though Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed he continues seeking a ceasefire and stability in Lebanon. Meanwhile, Israeli strikes intensified across southern Lebanon on Thursday despite renewed diplomatic engagement.
- Aoun stated on Thursday that Israel must withdraw from southern Lebanon as an "essential step" before any ceasefire. Israel is currently expanding a "security zone" aiming to extend up to 10 kilometers into the territory.
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The US president wants to meet Iran and mediator Pakistan with a seven-day ceasefire on the second front. But Lebanon's president did not participate in a phone call with Benjamin Netanyahu at first.
·Vienna, Austria
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The Washington Post+11 Reposted by 11 other sources
Lebanese president refuses to speak with Israeli prime minister
Coverage Details
Total News Sources23
Leaning Left6Leaning Right2Center12Last UpdatedBias Distribution60% Center
Bias Distribution
- 60% of the sources are Center
60% Center
L 30%
C 60%
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