Israeli media reported Sunday that Jerusalem has provisionally agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal with Hezbollah, the Islamic Republic-backed militia in Lebanon. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved the framework after consultations with senior cabinet members and defense officials, according to Haaretz, Kan, and Ynet.
Foreign Desk News reports that the proposed ceasefire involves a three-phase process. First, Hezbollah operatives would relocate north of the Litani River. Next, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would withdraw to within Israel’s borders. Finally, mediation would begin between Israel and Lebanon to address unresolved territorial disputes.
Key to Israel’s agreement is a U.S. assurance letter permitting military action in the demilitarized zone if Hezbollah attempts to rearm and the Lebanese armed forces fail to intervene. A U.S.-led international oversight committee will enforce the terms of the agreement.
While Netanyahu expressed some concerns, sources indicate he accepted the core elements of the deal. Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Dan Shapiro, is expected to arrive in Tel Aviv on Monday to finalize the details.
The agreement marks a significant diplomatic effort to de-escalate tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, amid ongoing regional instability.
AND WHERE ARE THE HOSTAGES IN THIS DEAL?!?!