Damaged buildings at Kafr Kila following Israeli army activity across the border between Israel and Lebanon, as seen from Metula on the Israeli side of the border on April 9, 2026.
| Photo Credit: Reuters
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (April 9, 2026) that he has authorised direct negotiations with Lebanon “as soon as possible,” as a tentative ceasefire in the Iran war staggered under the weight of Israel’s bombardment of Beirut.
Mr. Netanyahu said he gave the order in response to requests from Lebanon and that talks would focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations between the neighbouring countries. He welcomed a call by Lebanon’s prime minister to demilitarise Beirut.
Published – April 09, 2026 10:09 pm IST
