US Says Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Deal Near; Security Cabinet To Review Proposal

Israel’s security cabinet was scheduled to deliberate on a proposed ceasefire with Hezbollah on Tuesday, following optimistic remarks from the United States about the progress of negotiations. The White House suggested that an agreement was nearing completion.

The ongoing conflict in Lebanon, escalating since late September, has drawn calls for resolution from the U.S., European Union, and United Nations. Meanwhile, hostilities have intensified, with Hezbollah reportedly firing 250 projectiles at Israel on Sunday alone. In response, Israel launched strikes on Hezbollah’s stronghold in southern Beirut on Tuesday, shortly after ordering civilian evacuations in the area.

In Tel Aviv, Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel confirmed that Israel’s security cabinet would review the ceasefire proposal later that day, declining to elaborate due to the matter’s sensitivity. The U.S. National Security Council spokesperson, John Kirby, acknowledged significant progress in talks, stating, “We’re close,” though a final deal had not been reached.

Reports suggest that the draft agreement includes a 60-day transitional phase, during which Israeli forces would withdraw, the Lebanese army would assume border security, and Hezbollah would relocate heavy weaponry north of the Litani River. A U.S.-led committee would oversee implementation, allowing Israel to act against imminent threats if necessary.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized a zero-tolerance stance on security, even post-truce, during a meeting with the UN’s envoy to Lebanon. He reiterated, “If you do not act, we will do it, forcefully.”

While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly inclined to accept the U.S.-brokered deal, critics within Israel, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, have labeled the truce a missed opportunity to dismantle Hezbollah entirely.

The ongoing conflict has caused devastating casualties. Lebanon reports over 3,768 deaths since October 2023, while Israel has lost at least 129 people, including civilians and soldiers.