
A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has brought calm to Lebanon after weeks of deadly strikes and ground clashes. The ceasefire agreement was implemented despite Hezbollah's former leader Hassan Nasrallah's vow that a truce with Israel would only be reached if a ceasefire was declared in Gaza. However, negotiations for a truce in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages have been at a stalemate for months, with both sides rejecting each other's demands.
The outgoing Biden administration sees a 'newfound opportunity' after the truce agreement in Lebanon to push for a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza. National security adviser Jake Sullivan expressed optimism that there might be a chance to drive forward negotiations in Gaza, especially with the pressure mounting on Hamas.