Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has refused to speak with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, casting doubt over U.S.-led efforts to broker direct talks aimed at halting cross-border fighting.
According to a government official, Aoun conveyed his position during a call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with Washington acknowledging Lebanon’s stance.
U.S. President Donald Trump had earlier suggested that the leaders of Israel and Lebanon would hold a direct conversation — potentially the first in more than 30 years — as part of efforts to stabilize the region following weeks of conflict involving Israel, Hezbollah and Iran.
However, neither the Lebanese presidency nor Netanyahu’s office confirmed any such talks, and Aoun’s refusal now raises uncertainty over the diplomatic push.
The developments come amid a fragile ceasefire linked to the broader Iran conflict, which has disrupted global markets and triggered widespread violence across the region.
Pakistan has emerged as a key mediator, hosting talks between U.S. and Iranian officials in Islamabad, with efforts underway to extend the ceasefire before it expires next week.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, hostilities continue. Hezbollah has launched rockets and drones into northern Israel, while Israeli forces have intensified strikes across southern Lebanon, including in Tyre and Nabatieh.
The situation underscores the challenges facing international mediators as they attempt to de-escalate tensions in a conflict that has already caused significant loss of life and economic disruption.
