Efforts to secure a cease-fire in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah have shown some progress, with Israel continuing to carry out airstrikes in Beirut targeting Hezbollah’s strongholds. Amid the attacks, the U.S. proposed a 13-point truce plan that has been largely agreed upon by both sides and aims to fully implement U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701. The proposal includes steps such as the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, Hezbollah moving north of Litani river, and Lebanese forces and U.N. peacekeepers taking over the buffer zone.
Israel has expressed hope for a cease-fire agreement, with the country’s energy minister stating that they are closer to an arrangement than ever before. The U.S. has been pushing for peace in the region, particularly in the final days before the end of President Trump’s term. Prime Minister Netanyahu is reportedly eager to secure a ceasefire in Lebanon to deliver a foreign policy victory to Trump, who is seen as strongly pro-Israel.
Both sides are facing challenges in the negotiations, with Lebanon prepared to implement Resolution 1701 but rejecting Israeli demands for freedom to act if Hezbollah returns to border areas. The United Nations would provide support to the Lebanese army but would not directly enforce a ceasefire. The conflict has had devastating consequences, with thousands of casualties and billions of dollars in damages. The hope is that a ceasefire agreement can be reached soon to bring an end to the violence and suffering in the region.
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