Lebanese Denial and Israeli Confirmation: Mystery Surrounds the 'Historic Call' Announced by Trump

A Lebanese official source categorically denied today, Thursday, the circulating news about arrangements for an anticipated call with the Israeli side, in response to statements by US President Donald Trump. The source confirmed that Beirut had not received any information on this matter through official channels, emphasizing the absence of any current coordination regarding this proposal.

US President Donald Trump had sparked a wave of controversy after a post on his 'Truth Social' platform, in which he hinted at efforts to achieve de-escalation between Lebanon and Israel. Trump mentioned that a call would bring together 'two leaders' from both sides tomorrow, to be the first of its kind in nearly 34 years, which he described as a necessary step to end the crisis.

In contrast, a state of anticipation prevailed in Israeli circles, where Technology Minister and member of the Security Cabinet, Gila Gamliel, confirmed that the call would indeed take place today. These confirmations came via Israeli Army Radio, despite no official statement yet from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office regarding the details of the conversation.

Field sources indicate that the call for direct contact is not a new idea, but rather dates back to previous American proposals presented by envoy Tom Barrack during his visits to Beirut. The proposal aimed to break the political stalemate through direct communication between the Lebanese presidency and the Israeli side, which was met with extreme sensitivity within Lebanese political circles.

On the ground, sources reported that Israel significantly expanded its military deployment, moving from controlling five border points to deploying forces from five full military divisions. This move aims to impose a new reality on the ground extending from the Blue Line to the course of the Litani River deep in southern Lebanon.

In a related context, the Israeli Security and Political Cabinet held a lengthy meeting that lasted for about four hours to discuss ceasefire proposals. Despite the long deliberations, the council did not announce clear decisions, amid leaks indicating that significant gaps remain in the terms of the required de-escalation from both sides.

The leaked Israeli conditions, published by Hebrew newspapers, include the establishment of a comprehensive buffer zone up to the Litani River, with guaranteed freedom of military action for the Israeli army in the northern areas. The proposals also include a long-term plan aimed at disarming Hezbollah under direct American supervision, which Lebanon categorically rejects.

In recent days, Israeli airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut have ceased, with sources indicating that this calm came at a direct American request. Fighting is currently concentrated in the southern axes, especially around the town of Bint Jbeil, where Israeli forces are seeking to achieve field gains before any potential agreement.

Observers believe that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seeking to achieve a symbolic 'victory image' on the ground to present to the Israeli public before entering any negotiation process. These moves come amid internal Lebanese division over the feasibility of direct negotiations, especially with the rejecting stances expressed by Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.

Historically, Lebanon has not witnessed any direct official communication at the level of heads of government with Israel, with the exception of the 1983 negotiations that followed the Israeli invasion. That experience, which took place in Khalde and Kiryat Shmona, still causes sharp division in Lebanese political memory regarding its repercussions on national sovereignty.

Trump's statements caused shock and widespread reaction on social media platforms in Lebanon, where many fear that this step could increase internal division. Lebanese parties are awaiting a ceasefire announcement as a first and essential step before discussing any political paths or border negotiations.

The question remains about the identity of the Lebanese party that might participate in such a call if the news is true, amid speculation that it might be at the prime ministerial level. However, official institutions in Beirut remain committed to their denial, awaiting what the coming hours will bring in terms of field or diplomatic developments.

We are trying to find a period of calm between Israel and Lebanon, it has been a long time since the last conversation between two leaders, and that will happen tomorrow.