Beirut: Lebanon and Hezbollah have agreed to a U.S.-mediated ceasefire proposal with Israel, including some suggested amendments, a senior Lebanese official said on Monday, as reported by the international news agency Reuters.The move is described as the most serious effort yet to halt the ongoing conflict.
Ali Hassan Khalil, a close aide to Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, confirmed that Lebanon submitted its written response to the U.S. ambassador in Beirut. White House envoy Amos Hochstein is expected to arrive in Lebanon to advance discussions.
Hezbollah Endorses Ceasefire Talks
Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group and significant political and military force in Lebanon, has endorsed Berri to lead the ceasefire negotiations. Khalil said, “Lebanon presented its comments on the paper in a positive atmosphere,” adding that the amendments emphasize strict adherence to United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.
Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel, prohibits Hezbollah’s armed presence in the border area between the Litani River and the Lebanese-Israeli frontier. It also calls for the cessation of hostilities and measures to prevent the rearmament of Hezbollah.
Key Challenges Ahead
Despite the progress, Khalil noted that the success of the ceasefire initiative depends on Israel’s response. He remarked, “If Israel does not want a solution, it could make 100 problems.”
Israel has historically accused Lebanon of failing to fully implement Resolution 1701, citing Hezbollah’s continued military presence near the border. Conversely, Lebanon has accused Israel of violations, including repeated airspace breaches by Israeli warplanes.
Also Read | Gaza’s Struggle for Survival: Families Sell Salvaged Clothing Amidst Devastation
The situation remains tense, with Khalil accusing Israel of trying to negotiate “under fire” following increased bombardments of Beirut and Hezbollah-controlled areas in southern Lebanon. He insisted that such actions would not alter Lebanon’s position.
Also Read | Kremlin Responds to Biden’s Missile Strike Decision with Nuclear Doctrine Review
Regional and International Implications
The ceasefire talks come amidst heightened tensions and escalating violence. A successful agreement would mark a significant step towards stabilizing the region, though deep-seated issues between the parties may complicate the process.
