Ceasefire Agreement Reached Between Lebanon and Israel
A significant development has emerged in the ongoing conflict between Lebanon and Israel, as a source close to Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri revealed to Al Jazeera that a comprehensive ceasefire agreement has been reached with US envoy Amos Hochstein. The agreement, which is set to be implemented within the next 60 days, includes critical terms such as a ceasefire in both nations and the withdrawal of all unofficial military presence north of the Litani River.
The source further indicated that following the implementation of these provisions, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hezbollah regarding the Blue Line will be revived. However, it was emphasized that any points reported in the Israeli media were not part of the discussions held with Lebanon.
Denials and Clarifications from Lebanese Officials
In a related development, Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati has publicly denied claims that the United States requested Lebanon to declare a unilateral ceasefire. This denial came after a Reuters report suggested that Hochstein had made such a request to advance negotiations aimed at resolving the long-standing conflict. Mikati's comments highlight the complexities of the situation, as he asserted that the US had not proposed any unilateral ceasefire declaration.
Additionally, a US official corroborated Mikati's statement, clarifying that Washington is focused on achieving a permanent ceasefire and is actively working with both sides to facilitate this process. Recent visits by senior officials from the White House to Lebanon and Israel indicate the urgency of restoring stability in the region, particularly amid concerns that Israel may continue its military operations in southern Lebanon.
