Bayan News – On Wednesday (September 25), seven informed sources told Reuters that the United States has undertaken a new diplomatic initiative to end Israel’s war in Gaza and Lebanon. This initiative was proposed on the sidelines of the annual UN summit in cooperation with international leaders.
According to Al Arabiya, two Lebanese officials, two Western diplomats, a source familiar with Hezbollah’s thinking, a source in Washington, and another person aware of the matter revealed that the details were discussed on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.
Additionally, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides confirmed that the United States and France are seeking a temporary agreement to prevent further escalation between Israel and Hezbollah.
However, the main focus is on containing the violence in Lebanon, which has the potential to escalate into a regional war.
Despite these efforts, Israel has raised the possibility of a ground invasion of Lebanon, increasing pressure on the ongoing negotiations. The ceasefire talks are also aimed at securing the release of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas.
On October 7, 2023, Hamas attacked Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking numerous Israeli and foreign citizens hostage.
In response, Israel launched an offensive against the Gaza Strip, which local officials say has resulted in 41,000 deaths so far.
The U.S.-led proposal seeks to end the war in Gaza and reach a ceasefire with Hezbollah. It may also include settling the disputed borders between Israel and Lebanon.
According to Reuters, while Hezbollah remains committed to fighting Israel until its offensive in Gaza ceases, the Iran-backed militant group has expressed a willingness to participate in negotiations involving both Gaza and Lebanon.
Based on this report, diplomacy is gaining momentum, with French and Lebanese officials intensifying efforts to prevent a full-scale regional war, though many challenges remain in achieving a lasting solution.
