Lebanese PM: Negotiation is the cheapest way to end conflict with Israel

Beirut - Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam reaffirmed on Tuesday that the negotiation process remains the least costly path for Lebanon to end its conflict with Israel.

“I reiterate that negotiation is the option with the lowest cost for Lebanon. The more efforts are unified under the auspices of the state, the shorter the path towards ending the occupation and the return of southern residents to their towns and villages,” said Salam, as quoted by the Lebanese government.

Salam added that the primary task at present is to ensure that a ceasefire remains effective throughout all Lebanese territories.

These remarks were made as new direct talks between Lebanon and Israel, mediated by the United States, commenced in Washington on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Lebanese Embassy in Washington had stated the previous day that the Hezbollah group had agreed to a US proposal regarding the cessation of reciprocal attacks with Israel. Under this proposal, Israel is expected to halt attacks on the southern outskirts of Beirut, while Hezbollah would refrain from attacks against Israeli territory.

Previously, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated that the government is working to maintain domestic stability and prevent social division, asserting that there is no alternative to negotiation to end the conflict.

On the same day, Hezbollah declared its readiness to comply with a ceasefire, provided that Israel ceases all attacks across Lebanese territory. Hezbollah leader Mahmoud Qomati stated that the group rejects any scheme that only halts attacks on the southern outskirts of Beirut in exchange for stopping attacks on northern Israel, demanding instead a comprehensive end to hostilities.