US Envoy Hochstein Pursues Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire

U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein has arrived in Beirut for discussions aimed at establishing a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, following a positive response from Lebanon and Hezbollah to a U.S. draft proposal. The proposed ceasefire seeks to withdraw both Israeli forces and Hezbollah from a U.N.-designated buffer zone, ensuring that the Lebanese military and U.N. peacekeepers maintain order. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, has emphasized that Israel will continue military operations against Hezbollah, regardless of a ceasefire agreement. Hochstein's meetings include talks with Lebanese officials such as Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who is authorized to negotiate on behalf of Hezbollah. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with over 3,500 deaths reported in Lebanon and escalating humanitarian crises in Gaza due to food shortages. The situation remains precarious as both sides navigate the complexities of a potential agreement amidst ongoing violence.