Hezbollah rejects direct Tel Aviv–Beirut talks as clashes continue in southern Lebanon

Hezbollah has firmly rejected any direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, as clashes intensify in southern Lebanon despite ongoing ceasefire efforts and international mediation.

According to Hezbollah officials, direct talks with Israel are unacceptable under current conditions, with leaders calling such negotiations a violation of Lebanon’s national stance and warning they could deepen internal divisions. The group has insisted that any political process must first ensure a complete halt to Israeli military operations and withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

The rejection comes as fighting continues on the ground, with fresh Israeli airstrikes and Hezbollah attacks reported in southern Lebanon. Recent violence has marked one of the deadliest periods since a US-mediated ceasefire began earlier this month, highlighting the fragility of the truce.

Hezbollah leadership has also described proposed talks as destabilizing, urging Lebanese authorities to reconsider participation in US-backed negotiations. The stance underscores the group’s broader position that resistance against Israeli military presence must continue regardless of diplomatic initiatives.

Meanwhile, the Lebanese government faces growing pressure to pursue dialogue with Israel as part of international efforts to de-escalate the conflict. However, internal divisions remain, with Hezbollah’s opposition complicating Beirut’s ability to present a unified negotiating position.

Analysts warn that the continued fighting, combined with rejection of direct talks, could further delay any meaningful progress toward a long-term ceasefire. They note that without consensus within Lebanon and de-escalation on the ground, diplomatic efforts are likely to remain stalled.