US envoy Amos Hochstein is currently in Beirut, engaging in discussions aimed at brokering a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah. The proposed agreement seeks to establish a 60-day cessation of hostilities, with the ultimate goal of achieving a lasting ceasefire, as reported by a Lebanese official.
The terms of the proposal fall in line with the parameters outlined in UN Resolution 1701, which brought an end to the conflict between Lebanon and Israel in 2006. According to the resolution, the only armed entities permitted in the region south of Lebanon’s Litani River are the Lebanese army and UN peacekeeping forces.
One key aspect of the proposal involves the withdrawal of Israeli ground forces from southern Lebanon, where they have been operating since late September. Additionally, there is a call for stricter enforcement of Resolution 1701 to ensure compliance from all parties involved.
However, there are challenges to reaching a swift agreement. An Israeli source expressed skepticism about the prospects of a deal, citing Hezbollah’s reluctance to grant Israel the right to retaliate in case of ceasefire violations. This particular demand is seen as crucial for gaining approval from the Israeli cabinet.
Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich emphasized that 'full operational freedom' for the Israeli military in southern Lebanon is a non-negotiable requirement. He drew parallels to the situation in Gaza, where Israel asserts its operational independence.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati dismissed reports suggesting that Israel was seeking operational freedom in south Lebanon, labeling them as mere speculation. He clarified that such a clause was not included in the proposal he reviewed.
Parliament speaker Nabih Berri, a key figure in the talks representing the Hezbollah-allied Amal party, stated that the US-proposed agreement does not include provisions for Israeli military operational freedom in Lebanon. He emphasized that such a demand would be unacceptable to the Lebanese side.
Another source familiar with the negotiations revealed that President-elect Donald Trump has thrown his support behind US envoy Amos Hochstein’s efforts, which could enhance the chances of a successful ceasefire agreement.
