Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, met in Jerusalem with the US President's Special Envoy, Amos Hochstein, and the Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs, Brett McGurk.

A statement issued by Netanyahu’s office said, “The Prime Minister thanked the American friends for their efforts. Netanyahu explained that the main issue is not this or that draft agreement, but rather Israel’s ability and determination to implement the agreement and thwart any threat to its security from Lebanon, in a way that brings the population back safely to their country.” Their homes."

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer also held talks with American officials.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defense, “The discussions focused on the strategic challenges and opportunities in the region, especially the security arrangements related to the northern square and Lebanon, and the efforts made to ensure the return of 101 hostages still being held by Hamas in Gaza.”

On Thursday, US officials Brett McGurk and Amos Hockstein began their discussions with decision-makers in Israel as part of efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon and Gaza.

The United States has been seeking for months to reach an agreement to end the Gaza war that began in October 2023, and its repercussions spread to include Lebanon.

Washington called on Israel, which relies on American diplomatic and military support, for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon, where it is bombing Hezbollah strongholds.

The US State Department confirmed, on Wednesday, that American officials have reached out to Israel to advance proposals to end the war in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon.