Innocent lives continue to be lost in Lebanon as Israeli strikes escalate. In a significant development, efforts led by international allies to halt the conflict appear to be nearing fruition. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly agreed in principle to a ceasefire with Lebanon. A formal announcement is expected within the next 36 hours.
According to a report by Al Jazeera on Monday, U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron will jointly declare the ceasefire. Sources from Lebanon indicate that the announcement will align with a broader 36-hour timeline under ongoing negotiations.
Earlier, the Asharq Al-Awsat news outlet reported that Biden and Macron are set to announce a 60-day ceasefire on Tuesday. While the White House confirmed that a ceasefire agreement is close, it refrained from providing further details. French officials also stated that discussions remain ongoing.
The Times of Israel reported on Sunday that Netanyahu has agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire with Hezbollah, Lebanon’s resistance group. Netanyahu is now working on how to present the agreement to the public. Reports indicate that this decision was made following high-level meetings.
Israeli media outlets Kan, Ynet, and Haaretz cited officials stating that while the ceasefire proposal has received preliminary approval, certain aspects still require refinement. Both Washington and Beirut have acknowledged that the proposal is not finalized, but its main principles have been agreed upon. Israeli sources further stated that Lebanon has been informed about the developments.
Last week, Hezbollah’s chief, Naim Qassem, revealed that the group had reviewed the ceasefire proposal and provided feedback. "The ball is now in Israel’s court," Qassem noted, indicating Hezbollah’s openness to discussions pending Israel’s response.
As international pressure mounts and diplomatic channels work tirelessly, the world watches closely, hoping for an end to the hostilities that have caused widespread devastation in Lebanon.
