Israel kills seven in Lebanon as direct talks continue in US for second day

Direct talks between Israeli and Lebanese delegations are continuing in Washington, DC, for a second day. The discussions, the third round of direct negotiations this year, are occurring amidst ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon, which have resulted in at least seven deaths on Friday. Lebanon is demanding an end to Israeli attacks and occupation, while Israel is focused on the disarmament of Hezbollah and a potential normalization agreement. The current ceasefire, brokered by the US, is set to expire soon. Despite the talks, Israel has continued strikes, including drone attacks that killed civilians and damaged ambulances. Lebanon views these attacks as a sign of Israel's lack of seriousness about ending the war.

US officials described the first day of ceasefire talks between Lebanon and Israel in Washington D.C. as "positive" and "productive." The discussions, held at the US State Department, aim to extend a fragile truce that is set to expire on Sunday. The talks involve Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors, with Israel also including military officers. Lebanon's objective is to consolidate the ceasefire and halt the ongoing violence. The conflict escalated following Israel's actions against Hezbollah, which retaliated with fire. The US is facilitating these negotiations to de-escalate the situation.