US Envoy Hochstein Visits Beirut for Ceasefire Talks

U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein is set to travel to Beirut on Tuesday to discuss a ceasefire proposal with Lebanese officials, who have reportedly shown a positive view toward the plan but have not yet fully endorsed it. The Lebanese government's response is critical, as it may not have Hezbollah's backing, which could hinder progress. Concurrently, Hochstein will visit Israel to assess its willingness to accept the U.S. proposal, which aims to ensure Israel's operational freedom while requiring Hezbollah's withdrawal from southern Lebanon. The proposal also emphasizes the need for the Lebanese army to be the sole armed force in the south and restricts rearming groups like Hezbollah. While there is optimism about the negotiations, both sides are grappling with complex regional dynamics, including Iran's influence over Hezbollah. Israel insists on maintaining its right to military action in Lebanon if the ceasefire terms are violated.