U.S. Proposes 60-Day Ceasefire in Israel-Hezbollah Conflict

U.S. mediators are proposing a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah to facilitate the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, aimed at maintaining a weapons-free zone in southern Lebanon. This initiative replaces a previous 21-day ceasefire proposal and seeks to address the ongoing hostilities that have escalated in conjunction with the Gaza conflict. Israel's military operations are intensifying, particularly in Baalbek, where evacuation orders have been issued, highlighting the urgency of humanitarian needs as residents flee. Negotiations face challenges, including Israel's demand for direct enforcement capabilities to respond to any violations of the ceasefire. Despite the earnest diplomatic efforts led by U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein, sources indicate that the deal could still falter due to complex geopolitical concerns. Efforts to stabilize the situation are critical as fighting continues, especially near Khiyam, underscoring the severity of the conflict.