Efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah have reached an advanced stage, with U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron expected to announce an agreement within 36 hours, according to senior Lebanese officials.
The potential deal, mediated by U.S. Middle East envoy Brett McGurk, involves a 60-day transition period during which the Israeli military would withdraw from southern Lebanon. In its place, regular Lebanese Army forces would be deployed to areas close to the border, taking over control from Hezbollah. Hezbollah, in turn, would relocate its heavy weaponry north of the Litani River, creating a buffer zone between its forces and the Israeli border.
To ensure compliance, a U.S.-led five-nation oversight committee, including France, would monitor the situation and address any violations.
The agreement includes additional assurances for Israel. The U.S. has pledged support for Israeli military action against imminent threats from Lebanese territory or efforts to rebuild Hezbollah’s military infrastructure near the border. Such actions, however, would require prior consultations between Israel and the U.S.
The ceasefire follows weeks of intensive diplomatic efforts, with the U.S. and France playing key roles in mediating between the parties. White House National Security Spokesperson John Kirby noted that while the agreement is close, “nothing is done until everything is done.”
Meanwhile, Lebanese Deputy Parliament Speaker Elias Bou Saab said there were “no serious obstacles” left unless Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu changed his position. The Israeli cabinet is expected to meet on Tuesday to discuss and potentially approve the agreement.
Despite diplomatic progress, hostilities have escalated in recent days. Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah-controlled areas in Beirut over the weekend caused extensive damage and resulted in at least 29 deaths. Hezbollah retaliated by launching its largest rocket attack to date, firing 250 missiles into northern Israel.
