Potential Ceasefire Agreement in Lebanon
A senior Israeli defense official expressed optimism about reaching a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon. This plan, backed by the U.S., would involve Hezbollah withdrawing north of the Litani River and the Lebanese Army regaining control of southern Lebanon. U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein visited Israel to discuss these negotiations with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Katz, and IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Halevi.
The ceasefire would require the Lebanese Army to prevent Hezbollah from reestablishing its presence in southern Lebanon. If Israel detects Hezbollah rebuilding infrastructure, it will notify the Lebanese Army through the U.S. to act. If no action is taken, Israel reserves the right to intervene.
Under the proposed agreement, Lebanese civilians could return to their villages, and Israel would not maintain a security zone in southern Lebanon. Instead, Israel would respond to any Hezbollah activity directly or by alerting the Lebanese Army. The UN peacekeeping force, UNIFIL, would likely remain in the area but is not seen as central to enforcing Hezbollah’s removal.
After Hochstein’s meetings, U.S. officials acknowledged some remaining gaps but indicated that an agreement could be finalized soon. Lebanon seeks amendments to the U.S. proposal to expedite the withdrawal of Israeli troops. They want an immediate pull-out after the ceasefire declaration to allow the Lebanese Army to deploy and for displaced individuals to return home. In contrast, Israel suggests a 60-day withdrawal period after the truce announcement.
Meanwhile, in discussions about a potential hostage deal with Hamas, an Israeli defense official noted that there is now a greater chance of reaching an agreement. Hamas has shown interest in a deal that does not require formally ending the war in Gaza. The initial stage of this deal may include a 42-day ceasefire and the release of several hostages.
Current estimates indicate that 97 hostages are still held by Hamas, remaining in Gaza after an initial release of 105 civilians during a prior week-long truce.
