Israel-Lebanon Peace Talks Launch

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will host the first direct peace talks between Israel and Lebanon in decades as the U.S. seeks to broker a ceasefire.

The diplomatic effort comes as Israeli forces continue their ground invasion of southern Lebanon, aiming to establish a security zone along the Litani River.

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has urged the Lebanese government to withdraw from the meeting, labeling the process futile.

Humanitarian officials warn that Lebanon needs $1 billion in aid to manage the displacement of over 1.2 million people.