Hezbollah Supports Ceasefire Efforts with Israel

Hezbollah has expressed support for ceasefire efforts in Lebanon, marking a significant shift in its stance as the group has previously linked such a truce to the ongoing war in Gaza. In a televised address, Hezbollah Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem endorsed Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri's initiatives for a ceasefire, notably omitting the Gaza war as a condition for halting hostilities with Israel. This comes amid intensified Israeli military operations and the recent killing of Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, which has left the group claiming significant losses but asserting its military capabilities remain intact. Qassem emphasized that Hezbollah is still capable of inflicting damage on Israeli targets, indicating resilience despite the recent blows. The situation has escalated, with over 1,250 deaths reported in Lebanon due to Israeli air strikes since late September, and more than 42,000 fatalities in Gaza from the broader conflict. International diplomatic efforts continue, as U.S. and European leaders have sought to mediate a ceasefire amid fears of a regional war.