Netanyahu authorises direct talks with Lebanon 'as soon as possible'

Netanyahu greenlights direct talks with Lebanon amid ceasefire efforts, focusing on disarming Hezbollah and peaceful relations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (April 9, 2026) that he has authorised direct negotiations with Lebanon “as soon as possible,” as a tentative ceasefire in the Iran war staggered under the weight of Israel's bombardment of Beirut.

Mr. Netanyahu said he gave the order in response to requests from Lebanon and that talks would focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations between the neighbouring countries. He welcomed a call by Lebanon's prime minister to demilitarise Beirut.

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There was no immediate response from Lebanon.

The ceasefire was also hampered by Tehran's continued chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz and uncertainty over whether planned peace talks can find common ground.

Iran and the U.S. — which both declared victory after the ceasefire announcement — appeared to apply pressure. Semiofficial news agencies in Iran suggested forces have mined the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for oil that Tehran has closed. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, warned that U.S. forces would hit Iran harder than before if it did not fulfil the agreement.