Lebanon’s PM postpones US visit amid escalating regional tensions

Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam postponed a planned trip to the United States and the United Nations, choosing to remain in Beirut to oversee government operations as regional tensions escalate.

He said the decision reflects his commitment to safeguarding the security and unity of the Lebanese people, emphasizing that he will continue overseeing government work amid the current domestic circumstances.

في ظل الأوضاع الداخلية الحاضرة، وحرصاً على القيام بواجبي كاملاً في الحفاظ على امن اللبنانيين ووحدتهم، قررت تأجيل سفري إلى الأمم المتحدة والولايات المتحدة، لمتابعة عمل الحكومة من بيروت. — Nawaf Salam نواف سلام (@nawafsalam) April 11, 2026

The decision comes as Lebanon prepares for talks with Israel scheduled for next week in Washington, according to reporting by Le Monde. The meeting was planned to be held under U.S. mediation and focus on a possible ceasefire framework and broader negotiations.

Earlier, Lebanon’s presidency said a preliminary call between Lebanese and Israeli envoys in Washington, along with a U.S. diplomat, led to agreement on holding the first session at the State Department.

Israeli officials said they will not discuss a ceasefire with Hezbollah, instead framing the engagement as state-to-state talks with Lebanon. They said Hezbollah remains the main obstacle to peace.

President Joseph Aoun has expressed openness to direct talks with Israel while emphasizing the need for a ceasefire first. Nawaf Salam has faced growing domestic pressure as clashes continue and casualties rise.

The situation remains volatile as cross-border strikes between Israel and Hezbollah continue, despite renewed diplomatic efforts backed by Washington.