Lebanese president: Only solution to situation is ceasefire leading to talks with Israel

The Lebanese presidency publishes remarks made earlier today by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, in which he says that “the only solution to the situation Lebanon is facing is a ceasefire with Israel that would lead to direct negotiations between the two countries.”

At a meeting held today with representatives of Lebanon’s Maronite community, Aoun says the Lebanese proposal for a ceasefire and negotiations is beginning to receive positive responses in international circles.

He adds that Lebanon continues to hold international talks on the matter.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said today that he has instructed diplomats to launch direct talks with Beirut as soon as possible, though an Israeli official told The Times of Israel the talks would be conducted under fire, without an initial ceasefire.