Intensive Diplomatic Moves Ahead of Washington Negotiations: Lebanon Requests Truce, Trump Pushes for Ceasefire

Official sources revealed that Lebanese diplomacy in the American capital, Washington, is heading to demand an immediate cessation of military operations or the approval of a temporary truce. This step comes as a necessary goodwill gesture before engaging in the round of negotiations scheduled for next week, as Beirut seeks to establish a state of field stability preceding any political discussion.

In the context of ongoing preparations, there is widespread anticipation for a tripartite phone call bringing together Lebanon's ambassador in Washington with her Israeli counterpart, and with the participation of the American ambassador to Beirut. This preliminary communication aims to set the general frameworks for the upcoming discussions, amidst field and political complexities that impose themselves on the international research table.

For its part, international press reports stated that officials from the United States, Israel, and Lebanon have already held initial contacts to prepare the atmosphere before the start of official talks. These moves come at a very sensitive time, as international parties try to bridge divergent viewpoints regarding the conditions for stopping the ongoing military escalation.

On the American political front, media sources reported that President Donald Trump is exerting direct pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reach an agreement. Leaks speak of an American desire to announce a ceasefire by next Tuesday, to serve as a strong start for the negotiation process in Washington.

On the ground, the pace of military operations remains high, with Hebrew reports indicating that Netanyahu is personally overseeing the approval of air attacks targeting the capital, Beirut. This approach reflects the Israeli side's insistence on continuing military pressure simultaneously with diplomatic efforts, which Netanyahu described as negotiating 'under fire'.

Inside Lebanon, the intensity of political stances rejecting any concessions described as 'gratuitous' to the Israeli occupation is increasing. Hezbollah Secretary-General, Sheikh Naim Qassem, called on Lebanese officials to remain steadfast in their positions, stressing that the resistance will not accept the imposition of conditions that serve Israeli interests at the expense of national sovereignty.

Hezbollah representatives in the Lebanese parliament also affirmed their categorical rejection of any form of direct negotiations with the Israeli side at the present time. The party reiterated its demands for the complete and comprehensive withdrawal of occupation forces from all Lebanese territories in the south, considering it the only path to any future stability.

These developments come against the backdrop of a worsening humanitarian tragedy, as the Lebanese Ministry of Health announced a significant increase in the number of victims due to recent raids. The ministry documented the martyrdom of hundreds and the injury of thousands in the latest wave of escalation, which places the international community before an urgent responsibility to impose a de-escalation that ends the suffering of civilians.

The priority for Beirut lies in achieving a ceasefire before embarking on any official negotiations.