DC Talks Put Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire at Crossroads

Israel and Lebanon are set to hold talks in Washington next week to negotiate the fragile ceasefire as heavy Israeli strikes in Lebanon escalate and concerns grow that the US-Iran truce could collapse. Netanyahu has urged direct talks with Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah, while Beirut says a truce is required before negotiations; neither side has publicly confirmed the talks. The broader mediation effort also faces strains, including discussions in Islamabad over the Strait of Hormuz.