Lebanon president, PM discuss readiness for Israel talks

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam met Saturday to discuss preparations for the country’s first direct negotiations with Israel in decades, as a fragile ceasefire held following weeks of war.

In a statement, the presidency said the two leaders reviewed the post-ceasefire phase and assessed Lebanon’s readiness for anticipated talks with Israel aimed at securing longer-term arrangements.

The meeting followed a speech by Aoun in which he said Lebanon was entering a new phase focused on reaching “permanent agreements,” insisting that direct negotiations were not a concession — remarks seen as a response to criticism from Hezbollah.

Ceasefire enters second day

The 10-day truce, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, took effect Thursday after more than six weeks of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

Lebanese authorities say over 2,300 people were killed and more than a million displaced since the conflict escalated.

Despite the ceasefire, tensions remain high. Hezbollah and its allies oppose direct negotiations and have rejected government moves, including plans to disarm the group.

Senior Hezbollah official Mahmud Qamati criticized the government, accusing Aoun of undermining Lebanon’s position.

Displaced residents return cautiously

As the truce held, thousands of displaced residents began returning to southern Lebanon, with roads crowded by families heading home.

Authorities have been working to reopen roads damaged by Israeli strikes and restore access to affected areas.

In Beirut’s heavily bombed southern suburbs, some families briefly returned to inspect their homes, though many remained cautious.

“We do not feel safe to return,” said Samah Hajoul, a displaced resident staying in a tent along the seafront, citing fears of renewed violence.

She said she visited her home only briefly to collect belongings and assess damage, adding that many families are waiting to see if the ceasefire holds before returning permanently.

Focus on recovery and stability

During the meeting, Salam said the government is working to ensure the safe return of displaced people by repairing infrastructure, reopening roads and providing essential supplies.

He expressed hope that residents would be able to return home soon if the truce remains in place, while officials push forward with diplomatic efforts that could reshape relations between Lebanon and Israel after decades of hostility.