Benjamin Netanyahu to Propose US-Brokered Ceasefire with Hezbollah to Israeli Government

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he would present a US-mediated ceasefire proposal with Hezbollah in Lebanon to his government for approval. In a televised address, Netanyahu stated the ceasefire’s duration would depend on developments in Lebanon but warned of decisive action if Hezbollah violated the agreement or attempted to rearm.

“If Hezbollah violates the agreement and attempts to rearm, we will strike,” he said, emphasizing Israel’s coordination with the United States to maintain military freedom of action.

Despite ceasefire discussions, Israeli forces conducted multiple strikes in Beirut as Hezbollah launched 15 projectiles into Israeli airspace. The conflict, which escalated in 2023 following Hezbollah’s support for Hamas after its October 7 attack on Israel, has claimed over 3,800 lives in Lebanon and 129 in Israel, including civilians and soldiers.

Netanyahu justified the ceasefire as a strategic move to refocus Israel’s efforts against Hamas in Gaza and address broader regional threats, including Iran. He vowed to ramp up military pressure on Hamas, linking the ceasefire to Israel’s mission of rescuing hostages, 97 of whom remain in Gaza.

This potential ceasefire marks a significant turning point in the conflict, signaling an attempt at de-escalation while reinforcing Israel’s broader strategic goals in the region.