Lebanese Government Denies U.S. Ceasefire Request Reports

The office of Lebanon's caretaker prime minister, Najib Mikati, refuted claims that the United States requested Lebanon to declare a unilateral ceasefire. The government emphasized its desire for a mutual ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, adhering to U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which ceased previous hostilities.

The office of Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati firmly denied reports on Friday that claimed the United States had requested Lebanon to unilaterally declare a ceasefire. This denial follows claims from two sources reported by Reuters suggesting a U.S. envoy sought to propel forward stagnant talks regarding a truce between Hezbollah and Israel.

Mikati's office, in a statement to Reuters, highlighted that the Lebanese government remains committed to achieving a ceasefire from both opposing sides. This aim aligns with implementing U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, the agreement that previously brought an end to the 2006 conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.

The situation continues to evolve as international diplomats strive to mediate peace amid persistent tensions in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)