Beirut: A senior U.S. mediator expressed optimism on Tuesday about ending the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, highlighting narrowing gaps in negotiations. White House envoy Amos Hochstein, speaking in Beirut after meeting with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, described the moment as a "real opportunity" for resolution.
“There is now a tangible chance to conclude this conflict,” Hochstein stated during a press briefing. “As the situation stands, I hope decisive actions will be taken in the coming days.”
His visit followed Lebanon and Hezbollah's conditional acceptance of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal, signaling potential headway in Washington’s diplomatic efforts. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen confirmed ongoing talks but stressed that any agreement must meet Israel’s conditions, including pushing Hezbollah away from the border.
The diplomatic push coincides with heightened violence. Israel has intensified airstrikes on Hezbollah-controlled areas in Beirut, including three strikes on the capital in as many days, amid its broader campaign in Lebanon.
The conflict erupted into full-scale war in September when Israel launched an offensive targeting Hezbollah, killing key commanders and uprooting over a million people in Lebanon. The escalation followed nearly a year of cross-border hostilities and was fueled by Hezbollah's solidarity with Hamas after the October 7 Gaza war began.
Hochstein, who has made multiple attempts to broker peace, arrived in Beirut after Lebanon submitted written feedback on the U.S. ceasefire proposal. Hezbollah has endorsed Speaker Berri as the nation’s lead negotiator.
Israel’s stated objectives include dismantling Hezbollah's military capabilities and ensuring the safe return of civilians evacuated from northern areas. Cohen emphasized that any agreement must guarantee Hezbollah's inability to rebuild its strength and ensure Israeli security in the north.
Lebanon, however, has rejected Israel’s demand for freedom of military action, with Berri asserting that this was not part of the U.S. proposal. Lebanese negotiators have reaffirmed their commitment to U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which mandates Hezbollah's withdrawal of fighters and weapons to areas north of the Litani River.
The conflict has inflicted heavy losses, with Lebanese authorities reporting over 3,400 deaths, while Israel has suffered both civilian and military casualties. As the violence continues, the prospect of a ceasefire hinges on whether both sides can bridge their differences and commit to lasting peace.