Lebanon “ready to resume negotiations” with Israel, says prime minister

Lebanon's government is prepared to restart talks with Israel, as stated by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam in an interview with local media on Monday. This announcement comes amid ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon. Salam mentioned to the French newspaper L’Orient–Le Jour that Israel had not replied to Lebanon's suggestion to renew discussions. "We remain open to any agenda, format, or location for these talks," Salam added. President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon also confirmed that the government is completely ready to engage in discussions aimed at "stopping the risks of Israeli escalation," in a post on X on Monday. Last week, Israeli forces intensified their assaults on parts of Lebanon after the militant group Hezbollah launched projectiles into Israel in support of Iran. While Lebanese lawmakers have prohibited Hezbollah's military actions and called for the group to hand over its weapons, Salam emphasized that the government does not wish to confront the Iran-backed organization. The health ministry in Lebanon reports that at least 394 individuals, including 83 children, have died due to Israeli attacks since March 2. Salam indicated that the Lebanese government has received assurances that Israel will avoid bombing Beirut Airport and its access road.