Iran war live: Lebanon accuses Israel of 'scorched-earth' policy
The Lebanese government has described Israel's military operations in southern Lebanon as a 'scorched-earth' policy. Al Jazeera's live blog reports on the uncertainty of US-Iran negotiations and rising regional civilian casualties. Diplomatic channels continue indirect talks between Tehran and Washington.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam publicly described Israel's military operations in southern Lebanon as a 'scorched-earth policy'. Al Jazeera's live blog cited the Lebanese Health Ministry as reporting 18 deaths in the past 48 hours, including six children. Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein repeated that the operations 'target Hezbollah infrastructure'; independent verification remains hampered.
Indirect talks between the United States and Iran continue through Oman and Qatar. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said the discussions contain 'significant gaps on uranium-enrichment and sanctions-timeline issues'. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, in a cautious tone, said 'there is progress but no deal'. The European Union's High Representative Kaja Kallas added Lebanon and Syria to the EU Council's emergency meeting agenda.
Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oncu Keceli said the UN Security Council should treat the situation as urgent. UN Humanitarian Coordinator Imran Riza said a humanitarian corridor must be opened to southern Lebanon. Investors continue to track Brent oil between $98 and $102 a barrel. This article is sector analysis and not investment or travel advice; readers should consult qualified professional guidance.
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