UN says Lebanon-Israel talks 'critical opportunity' to end war

The United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Lebanon said on Friday that talks between Lebanon and Israel offer a "critical opportunity" to end the Israel-Hezbollah war.

"Diplomatic efforts now offer a critical opportunity to stop the violence," Imran Riza said in a statement, adding that he hoped "ongoing negotiations will pave the way toward a political solution".

"Airstrikes and demolitions continue daily, with an unacceptable toll on civilians and civilian infrastructure," he added. Israeli attacks have killed at least 2,951 people since the start of the war on March 2, according to Lebanon's health ministry.