U.S. Envoy in Lebanon to Broker Ceasefire Between Israel and Hezbollah

U.S. Middle East mediator Amos Hochstein arrived in Beirut on Tuesday to advance negotiations for a ceasefire aimed at halting the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. His visit comes as tensions in the region reach a critical point, following weeks of intensified hostilities.
Hochstein was welcomed at the residence of Lebanese House Speaker Nabih Berri, who is representing Hezbollah in the discussions. The visit signifies a significant step in U.S.-led efforts to mediate peace amid escalating violence.
Reports indicate that a proposed U.S. ceasefire plan would involve an initial 60-day suspension of hostilities. During this period, the Israeli military would withdraw from southern Lebanon, and Lebanese armed forces would take over border security. The ceasefire would set the stage for broader talks on implementing UN Resolution 1701, which calls for full cessation of hostilities and enhanced border security measures.
Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed cautious optimism about the U.S. proposal during an interview with Qatar’s Al Arabi TV. While viewing the initiative positively, he noted that certain aspects still require clarification.
The conflict escalated significantly in October when Hezbollah began launching attacks on Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza following Hamas’s deadly October 7 assault on southern Israel. In response, the Israeli military expanded its operations into Lebanon, conducting airstrikes and shelling across the country, including areas south of Beirut.
Since the fighting began, over 3,000 Lebanese civilians have been killed, and thousands more injured. In Israel’s northern region, shelling has displaced an estimated 60,000 people, with 77 reported dead and more than 640 injured.
Despite the proposed ceasefire framework, significant challenges remain. Hezbollah has indicated that the U.S. draft could serve as a starting point for further negotiation. However, the group’s stance and ongoing regional dynamics will likely play a pivotal role in determining the success of these efforts.