Israel Nears Ceasefire Agreement with Hezbollah, Says Ambassador

Beirut, November 25, 2024 – Israel is close to finalizing a ceasefire deal with the Lebanon-based Hezbollah militant group, according to Israeli officials. Ambassador Mike Herzog stated on Monday that an agreement could be reached “within days,” although several key issues remain unresolved.

Among the sticking points is Israel’s demand for the right to take military action if Hezbollah violates the terms of the ceasefire. The deal aims to push both Israeli and Hezbollah forces out of southern Lebanon. The two sides have a complex history, with both accusing each other of violating UN resolutions, particularly the 2006 ceasefire agreement, which set similar terms.

Herzog acknowledged that finalizing the agreement required the approval of the Israeli government, but he expressed optimism that a deal could soon be in place. The potential agreement follows diplomatic efforts, including recent talks mediated by a top U.S. envoy.

Since Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel in October 2023, following Hamas’ raid on southern Israel, the conflict has escalated significantly, with heavy Israeli airstrikes and ground incursions into southern Lebanon. Hezbollah has continued to fire rockets into Israeli territory, with 250 rockets launched on Sunday alone.

As the two sides edge toward a ceasefire, the focus remains on resolving key security concerns to prevent further escalation and to ensure compliance with the emerging deal.