Hezbollah chief rejects direct talks with Israel as strikes hit southern Lebanon

Ceasefire fears rise after Qassem rules out direct talks

Hezbollah’s leader Naim Qassem said the group will not hold direct talks with Israel, reiterating a stance of continued resistance. At the same time, the Israeli military reported strikes in Southern Lebanon aimed at what it described as imminent threats and Hezbollah infrastructure. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah’s moves are eroding a ceasefire.