Hezbollah rejects direct talks with Israel, urges Lebanese government to embrace Iranian support

Hezbollah has renewed its opposition to any direct negotiations with Israel, urging the Lebanese government to abandon what it described as a policy of concessions and to take advantage of Iranian support in addressing the conflict with Israel.

In a statement, the group criticised the Lebanese government’s current approach, saying it had resulted in “gratuitous concessions” to Israel and deepened political divisions within Lebanon.

Hezbollah reiterated its categorical rejection of direct negotiations with Israel, calling instead for an immediate and unconditional Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

The group also urged Lebanese authorities to capitalise on what it described as Iran’s support, arguing that it had helped secure a ceasefire and commitments from the United States regarding an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon.

Hezbollah warned against what it called continued political intransigence, saying the current approach had come at the expense of Lebanon’s sovereignty.

The statement rejected any arrangements that would link an Israeli withdrawal to additional conditions or negotiations.

Hezbollah also criticised proposals involving what it referred to as “experimental zones” north of the Litani River, warning against any agreements that, in its view, could provide Israel with new strategic gains.

The group said Lebanese authorities should insist on a complete and immediate Israeli withdrawal from all Lebanese territory, alongside the return of displaced residents, the release of detainees and an end to Israeli military operations against Lebanon.

Hezbollah added that all other issues should remain internal Lebanese matters and should not be subject to negotiations or external conditions.

The statement comes as US-mediated talks between Lebanon and Israel continue in an effort to address security arrangements along the border and reduce the risk of renewed conflict following months of hostilities.