In the news: Lebanon’s leader talks amid Israel-Lebanon clashes; ex-army chief Joseph Aoun is Lebanon’s 14th president since 2025. #Lebanon #Aoun
The ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel continues to hold in Beirut and much of Lebanon, while fighting remains active on the southern front. The United States is pressing for direct talks in Washington to move toward a formal peace framework, with Lebanon’s president calling for full ceasefire implementation before any high-level engagement.
A building in Tripoli's Bab al-Tabbaneh neighborhood collapsed on Sunday, killing 14 and injuring eight. Authorities have identified 114 buildings at risk of collapse, prompting phased evacuations. The disaster highlights decades of neglect, poor maintenance, and illegal construction in Lebanon's poorest city.
Lebanese authorities report Israeli forces sprayed herbicide glyphosate along the border, causing environmental and health concerns. Samples show high concentrations, and Lebanon plans to escalate the issue internationally. The incident follows ongoing tensions and previous Israeli actions in the region.
Lebanese politicians, including Saad Hariri, reaffirm plans for May 10 parliamentary elections despite calls for delay over security issues. Hariri's supporters gathered in Beirut, while authorities emphasize the election's scheduled date amid regional tensions and Hezbollah's weakened position after recent conflicts.
German President Steinmeier announced that Germany will withdraw its troops from UNIFIL in Lebanon by the end of 2026, after nearly five decades. Germany is training Lebanese forces and plans to support a follow-up presence, amid ongoing tensions and calls for disarmament of Hezbollah.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino was granted Lebanese citizenship by President Joseph Aoun during a visit to Beirut. Infantino, married to Lebanese citizen Lina al-Ashkar, visited the Interior Ministry to file documents and received his Lebanese passport. The move marks a rare exception under Lebanese law, which normally restricts citizenship transmission through women.
Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified in Lebanon following Iran's Supreme Leader's killing, prompting Israeli airstrikes, Lebanese displacement, and calls for peace talks amid mounting humanitarian crisis.
Lebanese authorities are advancing a plan to disarm Hezbollah and bring armed groups under state control, with international support focusing on the army's capacity to centralize weapons. The plan faces resistance from Hezbollah and ongoing Israeli strikes, complicating stability efforts amid upcoming international conferences.
As of February 28, 2026, Hezbollah has condemned US-Israeli actions against Iran but stopped short of military retaliation, warning only against attacks on Iran's Supreme Leader. Israel has conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, citing efforts to rebuild military capabilities. Lebanese officials urge restraint to avoid dragging Lebanon into conflict, amid US military buildup and diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation.
As of March 2, 2026, US and Israeli airstrikes continue targeting Iran following the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran refuses negotiations, with top official Ali Larijani declaring no talks with the US. President Trump says Iran's new leadership wants to talk, but military operations persist. The conflict has caused significant casualties and regional tensions.
Since March 2, 2026, Hezbollah launched dozens of rockets and drones at northern and central Israel in retaliation for the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Israel responded with extensive airstrikes targeting Hezbollah sites in Beirut and southern Lebanon, killing over 570 people and injuring hundreds. Forced displacement orders have uprooted over 700,000 Lebanese civilians amid escalating regional tensions.
Hezbollah has declared readiness for open conflict with Israel after launching rockets and drones in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes. Israel responded with extensive strikes in Lebanon and Iran, amid escalating regional tensions. The conflict has displaced thousands and increased military deployments across the region.
Ghanaian UN peacekeepers in Lebanon were attacked during ongoing Middle East hostilities, injuring three soldiers and damaging their base. The UN and Ghana demand investigation and accountability amid escalating violence involving Israel, Hezbollah, and Iran proxies. The incident highlights increasing risks for UN forces in the region.
Over the weekend, Israeli helicopters dropped troops in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, leading to clashes with Hezbollah. At least 41 people were killed, including Lebanese soldiers, amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes and Lebanese resistance. The operation targeted Hezbollah and possibly sought Ron Arad's remains, escalating regional tensions.
On March 3, 2026, Human Rights Watch verified Israel's use of white phosphorus artillery shells over the Lebanese town of Yohmor, causing fires in residential areas. Israel denies targeting civilians and claims limited use of white phosphorus for smoke screens. The attacks have displaced hundreds of thousands amid ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
Lebanon has opened discussions for direct talks with Israel to end the fighting sparked by Hezbollah’s March 2 attack and Israel’s subsequent strikes. Beirut has begun appointing a negotiating delegation, while regional tensions and displacement continue to rise amid calls for an international, monitored ceasefire.
Lebanese authorities have announced the postponement of parliamentary elections scheduled for May, citing regional instability, ongoing conflict, and displacement issues. The decision, supported by key leaders, requires legislative approval and reflects the country's response to escalating violence and regional tensions.
Recent protests in Lebanon criticize Hezbollah's military actions and political influence amid ongoing conflict with Israel. Public opinion shifts as economic crises and war impact civilians, with calls for disarmament gaining momentum and highlighting internal divisions within Lebanon.
Tensions in Lebanon have surged as Hezbollah fires into Israel, prompting Israeli strikes and mass displacement. Public discontent with Hezbollah grows amid ongoing violence, with Lebanon's government moving to disarm the group. The situation risks further escalation and regional instability.
Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have killed at least 12 people, displaced over a million, and prompted widespread evacuations. Lebanon reports civilian casualties and destruction, with international calls for a ceasefire. The conflict follows Hezbollah's rocket attacks on Israel and Israel's retaliatory strikes, escalating regional tensions.
Lebanon is forming a delegation for direct talks with Israel amid ongoing conflict, with no set date. Lebanon seeks clarity on Israel's commitment to a ceasefire, while France offers to facilitate negotiations. The talks aim to end hostilities and disarm Hezbollah, but key issues remain unresolved.
Israel has intensified military actions in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah positions following rocket attacks. Over one million Lebanese displaced, with ongoing airstrikes and ground operations. Diplomatic efforts, including French-led talks, aim to de-escalate the conflict triggered by Hezbollah's retaliation for Iran's leader's killing.
Israeli military operations in Lebanon have intensified, killing over 880 people and displacing more than a million since early March. Israeli strikes target southern Lebanon and Beirut, violating ceasefire agreements amid ongoing cross-border conflict with Hezbollah and regional tensions.
Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen publicly since his appointment amid conflicting reports about his health. While Iranian officials claim he is in good health, US and other sources suggest he may be wounded or dead following recent strikes. The situation remains unclear.
Hezbollah has denied having any presence in Kuwait following recent arrests linked to the group. Kuwait announced arrests of individuals planning attacks and recruiting for Hezbollah, which Lebanon condemns. The group also denied similar allegations in the UAE, amid ongoing regional tensions and Iran-backed attacks.
As of late March 2026, Israel has intensified its military campaign in southern Lebanon, ordering all residents south of the Litani River to evacuate. Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed destruction of five bridges used by Hezbollah and ordered demolition of homes near the border to create a buffer zone. Israel aims to control territory up to the Litani River to prevent Hezbollah attacks, while Hezbollah vows to resist. The conflict has displaced over one million Lebanese and killed more than 1,000 people.
Israel has intensified military operations in Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure following recent rocket attacks and strikes on Haifa. Over a million civilians have been displaced, and at least 1,000 people have been killed in three weeks. The conflict has expanded with Israeli strikes on Lebanese bridges and military sites, prompting Lebanese warnings of escalation.
Israeli forces have intensified strikes on Lebanon, destroying key bridges and infrastructure in southern Lebanon as part of a broader military campaign linked to the conflict with Hezbollah. Over 1.2 million people have been displaced, and the situation is escalating toward a potential ground invasion.
Lebanon declared Iran's ambassador persona non grata on March 24, ordering him to leave by March 29, but he remains in Beirut with Hezbollah's backing. This follows Hezbollah's renewed attacks on Israel, linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps directing operations. The move deepens Lebanon's political divide and complicates efforts to disarm Hezbollah amid ongoing Israeli military actions.
On March 28, 2026, an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon killed three journalists: Ali Shoeib of Hezbollah's Al Manar, Fatima Ftouni of Al Mayadeen, and her brother Mohammad Ftouni. Israel claimed Shoeib was a Hezbollah intelligence operative, a charge denied by Hezbollah. Lebanese officials condemned the attack as a war crime. The strike occurred during intensified Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon.
As of late March 2026, Israel has intensified its military campaign in southern Lebanon, expanding a security buffer zone up to the Litani River to counter Hezbollah rocket and missile attacks. The offensive includes ground advances, airstrikes on Hezbollah targets, and destruction of infrastructure. Over 1.2 million Lebanese have been displaced, with more than 1,200 killed. Israel aims to secure its northern border and weaken Iran-backed Hezbollah.
Lebanon enters its second month of conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, with Israel threatening long-term control of southern Lebanon. Over 1,300 killed and 20% displaced, as Lebanon's government prepares for prolonged displacement and seeks international aid amid limited support.
Since early March 2026, Israel has launched intensified airstrikes and ground operations in southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, killing over 2,000 people and displacing more than one million. Israeli forces are encircling and assaulting the strategic town of Bint Jbeil. Hezbollah continues rocket attacks into northern Israel. Lebanon and Israel have held preliminary talks in Washington to seek a ceasefire.
President Trump announced the successful rescue of a US Air Force colonel after his F-15 was shot down over Iran. The operation involved deep-in-country special forces and was completed without US casualties. Iran reported destruction of US aircraft and casualties during the rescue. Tensions escalate as Trump threatens attacks on Iranian infrastructure.
Israeli forces have continued their bombardment of southern Lebanon, targeting multiple locations and engaging in ground combat with Hezbollah in Bint Jbeil. The conflict has resulted in over 2,000 deaths since March, with displacement exceeding one million. Tensions are rising as Israel aims to encircle Hezbollah strongholds and expand its military presence.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to begin direct negotiations with Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah and establish peace, despite ongoing military strikes and conflicting positions. Lebanon advocates for a ceasefire before talks, while Israel continues its military operations. The talks are expected next week in Washington, with US mediation.
Israel and Lebanon have held direct talks in Washington for the first time in 43 years, aiming to disarm Hezbollah and establish peaceful relations. Despite a US-Iran ceasefire, Israel has refused to withdraw troops from southern Lebanon and continues strikes. Hezbollah and Iran reject negotiations without a ceasefire, while Lebanon demands an end to hostilities first.
The US and Iran have been engaging in diplomatic talks in Islamabad, aiming to extend a two-week ceasefire amid ongoing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations involve US proposals and Iranian demands, with regional security and energy supplies remaining at risk. The situation remains fluid as both sides consider future steps.
Israel has launched extensive strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon as peace talks are scheduled for Tuesday in Washington. Despite US pressure to limit fighting, Israel is maintaining its military operations. Hezbollah and Lebanese officials condemn the attacks, which have caused significant casualties and displacement. The situation remains tense as regional and international actors call for restraint.
Israel has launched over 100 airstrikes across Lebanon, killing at least 203 people and injuring more than 1,000. The strikes target Hezbollah sites but have hit densely populated residential areas, causing widespread civilian casualties and displacement. The conflict continues to escalate with no ceasefire in sight.
Israel has continued its military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, with ongoing strikes and evacuations. The US is pushing for a one-week ceasefire to facilitate negotiations, while Israel plans to begin direct talks with Lebanon focused on disarming Hezbollah. Diplomatic efforts are intensifying amid ongoing hostilities.
Lebanon and Israel have held their first direct talks in over 30 years in Washington, mediated by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The discussions focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing long-term security, despite ongoing Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon and Hezbollah's intensified attacks on northern Israel. Lebanon demands a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal, while Israel insists on Hezbollah's disarmament and rejects a ceasefire.
US and Iranian delegations have held multiple rounds of direct peace talks in Islamabad since April 11, aiming to end the six-week Middle East war. Iran demands a ceasefire in Lebanon, release of frozen assets, and control over the Strait of Hormuz. The US insists on nuclear restrictions and free passage through the strait. The ceasefire remains fragile amid ongoing Israeli-Hezbollah fighting.
Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors are set to hold face-to-face negotiations at the US State Department, focusing on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peace. Israel refuses to discuss a ceasefire with Hezbollah, while ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon have caused significant casualties and displacement amid escalating tensions.
Lebanon and Israel have held their first direct talks in 43 years, focusing on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations. The negotiations follow recent Israeli military strikes and ongoing tensions, with Lebanon emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and peace. The US, Israel, and Lebanon have described the discussions as productive, but disagreements persist.
On April 13, 2026, Italy has suspended the automatic renewal of its 2005 defence memorandum with Israel. The move follows rising tensions after Israeli attacks in Lebanon and incidents involving Italian UN peacekeepers. Italy's right-wing government, previously a staunch Israel ally, is shifting its stance amid regional instability and upcoming elections.
Lebanon and Israel have agreed to a ten-day ceasefire, starting today, as US efforts aim to facilitate direct negotiations. The ceasefire follows recent clashes, with Lebanon's government committing to prevent attacks by Hezbollah. Israeli conditions include disarmament of Hezbollah and a peace agreement based on strength. US President Trump has announced plans to invite both leaders to the White House for talks.
President Trump has announced that Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire. The announcement follows ongoing Israeli bombardment and recent direct talks in Washington. Lebanon's Aoun has refused direct contact with Netanyahu, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire before negotiations. Israeli forces are preparing for a possible truce, with uncertainty over enforcement mechanisms. The situation remains tense as both sides continue military operations.
A US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has taken effect since April 16, pausing hostilities including Israeli strikes on Hezbollah targets. Israeli troops remain in southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah has not formally endorsed the truce and insists on Israel's withdrawal. The ceasefire aims to enable peace talks, with US President Trump inviting both leaders to the White House.
President Trump has indicated that the U.S. is close to reaching a deal with Iran, with ongoing negotiations focusing on nuclear restrictions and a ceasefire in the Middle East. A temporary truce between Lebanon and Israel is in place, but tensions remain high. The situation is evolving rapidly today, April 19, 2026.