Maps
Magazine

WORLD NEWS

US Envoy Sees ‘Real Opportunity’ for Ceasefire Between Hezbollah and Israel
Amos Hochstein expresses cautious optimism for a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel.
ND
by News Desk
2024-11-19
US Envoy Sees ‘Real Opportunity’ for Ceasefire Between Hezbollah and Israel

US envoy Amos Hochstein has expressed hope for a breakthrough in the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, emphasizing a “real opportunity” for a ceasefire agreement during a visit to Lebanon.

After holding talks with Nabih Berri, the speaker of Lebanon’s parliament and Hezbollah’s endorsed negotiator, Hochstein described the discussions as “very constructive” and underscored the urgency for decisive action.

“This is a moment of decision-making,” Hochstein said. “It is ultimately up to the parties to conclude this conflict, but the opportunity is now within our grasp.”

The Biden administration is making a last-ditch effort to mediate as fighting escalates. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue operations against Hezbollah even if a ceasefire is reached, sparking objections from Lebanon, which views such actions as a breach of sovereignty.

Lebanon has reiterated its commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for Hezbollah’s withdrawal north of the Litani River, Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territories, and the deployment of Lebanese forces alongside UN peacekeepers. However, Lebanon has rejected US proposals for a Western-led enforcement mechanism to oversee its implementation.

“While there is cautious optimism, significant hurdles remain,” said Al Jazeera’s Zeina Khodr. “Lebanon has refused certain aspects of the US-led plan, particularly the establishment of a Western oversight committee.”

The conflict continues to claim lives. On Tuesday, Israeli airstrikes killed at least five people in central Beirut, while Hezbollah launched a missile at Tel Aviv, injuring seven. Since the escalation in October, over 3,500 Lebanese have been killed, with tens of thousands wounded.

Meanwhile, Israel’s offensive in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of more than 43,000 Palestinians, compounding regional instability.

As emergency workers sift through rubble in Beirut, skepticism over a genuine ceasefire persists. However, Hochstein remains committed, stating, “I’m doing everything I can to bring this to a close.”Top of Form
Tagged:

PeaceTalks

DiplomaticEfforts

MiddleEastCrisis

LebanonIsraelConflict

UNResolution1701
Share News: