Hezbollah’s New Leader Signals Willingness to Ceasefire with Israel Under Acceptable Conditions
Beirut, Lebanon – Amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Lebanon, Hezbollah’snewly appointed leader, Naim Qassem, has indicated a willingness to agree to a ceasefire with Israel under acceptable conditions. This statement comes as international efforts intensify tobroker a truce between the two warring parties.
Qassem, in his first public address since assuming leadership on October 29th, stated that Hezbollah would accept a ceasefire if Israel ceased its aggression, but only under appropriate and suitable conditions. He emphasized that the organization would not beg for a ceasefire, suggesting that any agreement would be contingent upon specific terms.
According to reports from the Israeli publicbroadcaster KAN, a proposed 60-day ceasefire agreement under consideration by the US would involve an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory within the first week. The proposal, reportedly put forward by Washington, is currently being discussed by Israeli officials.
Meanwhile, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed hope for a ceasefire within the next few hours or days, citing a conversation with US Special Envoy Amos Hochstein. Hochstein, who is expected to visit Israel on October 31st to discuss ceasefire terms, reportedly suggested that a truce could be within reach. Mikati,while cautiously optimistic, acknowledged that the situation remains volatile.
The potential for a ceasefire comes as Israel has intensified its airstrikes against Lebanon, targeting various locations in the eastern region. These attacks have resulted in at least 31 fatalities, according to reports.
While Hezbollah has signaled a willingness to engage in negotiations,Qassem underscored that political efforts to reach an agreement have yet to yield concrete results. He stated that no proposal has been presented yet that Israel agrees to, and that we can discuss.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides engaged in a delicate balancing act between military action and diplomatic efforts. The international community, led by theUS, is actively working to de-escalate the conflict and prevent further bloodshed. The outcome of these negotiations will determine the future of the fragile peace in the region.
References:
- Al Jazeera: [Link to article]
- The Times of Israel: [Link to article]
- The Jerusalem Post: [Link to article]
- KAN: [Link to article]
- AFP: [Link to article]
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