Netanyahu pushes direct Lebanon talks amid European backlash over strikes

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will begin direct peace talks with Lebanon as soon as possible to disarm Hezbollah and establish peaceful relations, in response to international pressure from Europe to halt attacks. The Lebanon war toll rose to about 1,888 dead with 303 killed in the latest update. Netanyahu stressed there is no Lebanon ceasefire and Israel will continue its strikes until Lebanon’s security is restored, while talks reportedly could be led by Israel’s U.S. ambassador; Pakistan is mediating and some European capitals welcomed the prospect of talks.