The United States and France are on the verge of announcing a ceasefire between Israel and the Lebanese group Hezbollah, according to multiple senior Lebanese officials. Truce, mediated after months of escalating violence, could mark a pivotal moment in the region’s stability.
Diplomatic Efforts Gain Momentum
In Washington, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby confirmed that progress has been made but cautioned, “Nothing is done until everything is done.” Meanwhile, the French presidency echoed optimism, noting “significant progress” in discussions.
Israel’s cabinet is set to meet on Tuesday to approve a truce, according to a senior Israeli official. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has remained tight-lipped, reports suggest that both parties have agreed on ext of the deal.
The proposed ceasefire reportedly includes a phased Israeli military withdrawal from southern Lebanon and deployment of Lebanese army troops in the border region within 60 days. A monitoring committee, chaired by the United States and including representatives from France, will oversee compliance.
Escalating Violence Amid Negotiations
Despite diplomatic advances, fighting has intensified. Israeli airstrikes have pounded Hezbollah-controlled southern Beirut, killing at least 29 people over the weekend. On Monday, 31 more fatalities were reported, with massive destruction in Hezbollah strongholds.
Hezbollah retaliated with one of its largest rocket attacks to date, firing 250 missiles into northern Israel. Israeli authorities reported 45 civilian deaths and 73 military fatalities since the conflict’s escalation.
Broader Implications for Gthe aza Conflict
While the Lebanon ceasefire deal could de-escalate the northern front, its impact on Gaza remains uncertain. U.S. officials have hinted at using the agreement as a stepping stone toward a potential truce in Gaza, where hostilities with Hamas continue unabated.
Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 Lebanon-Israel war, forms the basis of a new ceasefire proposal. However, mistrust lingers, with both sides accusing each or of failing to uphold the agreement in the past.
Political Divisions and Future Challenges
Within Israel, the proposed deal faces domestic opposition. Far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has urged Netanyahu to reject the agreement, calling for continued military action. A potential truce also underscores a delicate balancing act for Netanyahu’s government, which must navigate both internal divisions and external pressures.
Next Steps
As the region awaits formal announcements from President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron, the deal’s implementation remains uncertain. The agreement’s success will hinge on the ability of international mediators to enforce terms and prevent further escalations.
With U.S. Middle East envoy Brett McGurk in Saudi Arabia to discuss extending diplomacy to the Gaza conflict, Lebanon’s ceasefire could signal the first step toward broader regional stability. However, for now, the humanitarian toll continues to mount on both fronts.
