The Daily Star Lebanon Breaking News, Lebanon News, Middle East News & World News

### Senior Israeli Official: Diplomatic Efforts with Hezbollah to be Prioritized A high-ranking Israeli official announced on Tuesday that Israel and the United States will spend an unspecified number of weeks attempting to reach a new agreement with Hezbollah to stabilize the Israel-Lebanon border. This comes amid escalating tensions and the fear of a full-scale war. **Escalating Conflict:** Israel’s ongoing …

Nabih Berri, the Parliament Speaker and leader of the Hezbollah-allied Amal movement, expressed deep concerns about the escalating risk of war during an interview with Russian state-controlled RT television. “This month is critical; we are at a sensitive and delicate stage,” Berri stated on Monday, highlighting the growing tension in the region. He described the current situation as “unsettling” and …

A “spiritual-national summit” took place on Tuesday in Bkerki, attended by key religious and political figures, including the Vatican’s Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin. This gathering was notable for the absence of Shiite representatives, following controversial comments by Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi. Present at the summit were al-Rahi, Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Daryan, Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Sami …

**Israeli PM Netanyahu Seeks Diplomatic Solution with Hezbollah, Prefers to Avoid War** On June 20, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s key advisers, Minister Ron Dermer and National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi, visited Washington for discussions at the White House. According to two U.S. officials who spoke with Axios, they conveyed Netanyahu’s preference for a diplomatic solution over war with Hezbollah. …

### Gaza Airstrike Kills Haniyeh Family Members On Tuesday, Gaza’s civil defense agency reported that an Israeli air strike resulted in the deaths of 10 family members of Ismail Haniyeh, the Hamas leader based in Qatar, including his sister. The Israeli military, which has been conducting a campaign against Hamas following the October 7 attack, acknowledged the reports but did …

Eliteserien: Tromso vs. Molde Preview Tromso Romssa Arena will be the venue for Friday’s football match between Tromso and Molde, two teams with very different objectives for the 2024 Eliteserien season. Tromso’s primary goal is to ensure their survival in the top flight, while Molde is aiming to reclaim the domestic title. Tromso’s recent performance, a 2-2 draw with Lillestrom …

Eliteserien: Brann vs. Stromsgodset Preview Brann Brann aims to extend their winning streak to three games as they face Stromsgodset in the Eliteserien round 12. Following consecutive victories over Kristiansund and HamKam, Brann is keen on maintaining their momentum. However, they must remain vigilant and avoid complacency in Friday’s match. Key players Ulrik Mathisen, Moonga Simba, Jonas Torsvik, and Mads …

Copa America: Colombia vs. Costa Rica Preview Colombia Colombia seeks to build on their 2-1 victory over Paraguay as they face Costa Rica at State Farm Stadium in their second group match. In their Copa America opener, veteran midfielder James Rodriguez provided two crucial assists. A key player to watch in the Colombian lineup is Liverpool’s speedy winger Luis Diaz. …