U.S. State Department: Rubio Praises Aoun's Push for Direct Israeli Negotiations

The U.S. State Department reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed admiration for President Michel Aoun's willingness to engage in direct negotiations with Israel.

During discussions with the Lebanese president, Rubio emphasized the critical importance of compelling Hezbollah to cease its military operations against Israel without delay. According to the State Department's account, Rubio conveyed that the militant organization bears complete responsibility for the armed conflict currently unfolding across Lebanese territory.

The remarks underscore the American position on the escalating tensions in the region, with the State Department framing Aoun's diplomatic initiative as a positive development while placing the onus for the violence squarely on Hezbollah's shoulders.