Israel authorizes talks with Lebanon

The planned talks in Washington represent a potential shift in the conflict, which has escalated since Hezbollah began rocket attacks in support of Iran.

Lebanese officials insist that a total ceasefire must be implemented before substantive diplomacy can occur, citing the devastating civilian toll.

The Israeli military claims to have killed 180 Hezbollah fighters in recent operations, though hospitals in Beirut report being overwhelmed by casualties.

The inclusion of the Lebanon front in broader US-Iran peace negotiations remains a primary point of contention between the warring parties.