Israel and Lebanon are edging closer to a potential ceasefire agreement following intense cross-border violence between the Israeli military and the Hezbollah militant group. Reports from Israeli media highlighted ongoing negotiations, mediated by the United States, though official confirmation of a deal remains elusive.
The past weekend saw some of the heaviest exchanges since the conflict escalated in September. Hezbollah launched over 250 rockets at Israel, striking northern areas, Haifa, Nahariya, and Kfar Blum, as well as Petah Tikva near Tel Aviv. The attacks left several injured, damaged buildings, and caused widespread alarm. Israeli authorities reported homes "in flames and ruins" following direct hits.
In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched extensive airstrikes on Hezbollah strongholds in Beirut’s southern suburbs, targeting 12 command centers in the Dahiyeh area. Saturday witnessed one of the deadliest Israeli strikes on central Beirut, killing at least 29 people and destroying two apartment blocks. The Lebanese health ministry confirmed the death toll in Lebanon since October has surpassed 3,750, with over 15,400 injured and more than a million displaced.
U.S. mediator Amos Hochstein has spearheaded discussions, meeting Israeli and Lebanese officials last week to push forward a ceasefire proposal. The deal, reportedly based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, aims to enforce a buffer zone along the Israeli-Lebanese border, requiring Hezbollah to retreat and the Lebanese Army to secure the area.
While EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed optimism, stating the proposal was awaiting Israel’s final approval, conflicting reports emerged. Axios journalist Barak Ravid cited progress, while Israel’s public broadcaster Kan suggested unresolved issues remain. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a security cabinet meeting Sunday to address the matter.
The conflict has exacted a heavy toll on both sides. In Israel, rocket debris caused damage as far as Tel Aviv, and several individuals suffered injuries from shrapnel. The Lebanese army reported casualties from an Israeli airstrike near Tyre, which destroyed an army center. Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned the strike as a "direct bloody message" undermining ceasefire efforts.
The European Union pledged €200 million ($208 million) to bolster the Lebanese army’s capacity to maintain stability in the south. Borrell underscored the urgency of diplomatic resolution, urging both sides to seize the opportunity for peace.
As violence continues, the path to a ceasefire remains fraught with challenges, but international mediators remain committed to brokering an agreement that could end months of deadly conflict.