Lebanese President Joseph Aoun sets conditions for Netanyahu meeting

Joseph Aoun on Monday said he will not meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unless a security deal is reached and Israeli attacks stop.

In a statement, Aoun said the timing is not right for such a meeting and stressed that ending violence must come first.

The comments come as the United States pushes for dialogue between the two sides following recent tensions and clashes.

Lebanese and Israeli officials have already held rare talks in Washington, with more discussions expected in the coming days.

US President Donald Trump had earlier suggested a possible meeting between Aoun and Netanyahu at the White House.

However, the issue has caused divisions inside Lebanon. The Iran-backed group Hezbollah has opposed direct negotiations and called for diplomatic efforts to end the conflict instead.

Despite the differences, Aoun said Lebanon will continue on the path of talks, aiming to secure a ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Recent Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed thousands of people, even after a temporary ceasefire.

Officials say discussions are ongoing as efforts continue to reduce tensions in the region.