Ahead of planned direct negotiations between Lebanon and Israel next week, fresh reports suggest that both Washington and Beirut have asked Tel Aviv to temporarily halt its military operations against Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran.

According to a report by Axios, citing unnamed sources, the request involves a “tactical pause” in Israel’s ongoing offensive.

Lebanon Offensive Becomes Key Issue

Israel’s military action in Lebanon has emerged as a major obstacle in the broader negotiations between the United States and Iran. Tehran has argued that these strikes violate the fragile two-week ceasefire aimed at halting the conflict involving Iran.

However, both Israel and the United States have rejected this claim, stating that Lebanon is not covered under the ceasefire terms. Still, US President Donald Trump has reportedly urged Israel to reduce tensions.

Lebanon Calls for Negotiated Ceasefire

Officials in Beirut have stressed that any ceasefire must come through formal negotiations between Israel and the Lebanese government, not through unilateral decisions.

Some Israeli leaders also see merit in this approach. They believe announcing a limited pause in military action could support diplomatic efforts and improve the chances of progress in talks with Lebanon.

First Direct Talks Scheduled

A key development is expected on Tuesday, when Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors in Washington will hold their first round of direct discussions. These talks are being facilitated by the United States Department of State, with more detailed negotiations likely to follow.

Earlier, on Friday, both sides participated in a preparatory trilateral phone call along with an adviser to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. After the call, Lebanese officials confirmed that the parties agreed to meet and “discuss announcing a ceasefire.”

Differences Over Hezbollah

Despite the diplomatic push, disagreements remain. Israel’s Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, said he supports efforts “to promote a peace agreement with Lebanon, but it did not agree to discuss a ceasefire with the terrorist organisation Hezbollah.”

This highlights Israel’s position of separating talks with Lebanon from any direct engagement with Hezbollah.

US Backs Lebanon’s Proposal

Sources told Axios that the Lebanese government, through US mediators, has asked Israel to make a goodwill “gesture” by pausing airstrikes ahead of Tuesday’s meeting.

Lebanon has also suggested that Israel return to the terms of the November 2024 ceasefire, limiting its military action only to immediate threats from Hezbollah.

The United States is backing this proposal and is encouraging Israel to accept it.

Netanyahu Yet to Decide

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently reviewing the request. As of now, no final decision has been made on whether Israel will agree to the proposed pause.