Israel has rejected a Lebanese demand for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon during US-mediated talks between the two sides, Anadolu reports citing Israel’s public broadcaster KAN.

The broadcaster, citing Israeli officials, says Lebanon raised the issue during discussions involving military representatives from both countries under US sponsorship. Israel informed mediators that it would not withdraw, according to the report.

KAN adds that the talks also addressed the possibility of reaching a broader ceasefire arrangement that would include discussions on Hezbollah’s weapons.

The broadcaster, citing Lebanese media reports, further reports that Israeli and Lebanese military delegations are not holding direct talks, with all messages relayed through the US mediator.

Lebanon has requested clarifications regarding terms used by Israel to justify its military operations, including “imminent danger” and “response to threats,” according to the reports, which add that Israel is seeking a direct communication mechanism between the Israeli and Lebanese armies, as well as cooperation on the disarmament of Hezbollah.

Read more here.