U.S. Advances New Ceasefire Plan Between Israel and Lebanon

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken in the past 48 hours with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to promote a new ceasefire initiative, according to a senior U.S. official. The proposal is part of the ongoing negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, and another round of talks between diplomats from both sides is set for Washington this week.

Under the new U.S. idea, Hezbollah would first stop all attacks on Israel. In exchange, Israel would refrain from escalating operations in Beirut. The official said this would “create space for a gradual de-escalation of tensions and an effective cessation of hostilities.” The official said Aoun has been trying to move the plan forward and win agreement.

The U.S. official described Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri’s response as “evasive and disappointing.” Berri reportedly said he could secure Hezbollah’s commitment to a ceasefire, but insisted Israel should stop firing first, even though Hezbollah began the current round of fighting, the official said. The official also said, “Hezbollah follows Tehran’s lead. It has no interest in the welfare of the Lebanese people.”

Washington also argued that Iran wants to prolong the conflict in Lebanon so it can later claim credit for “saving the situation.” The official said, “The United States does not expect Israel to absorb ongoing attacks against its civilians by a terror organization. The fastest way to prevent escalation and protect civilians on both sides is for Hezbollah to stop its attacks immediately.” If the initiative fails, the official indicated the U.S. could allow Israel to target Hezbollah positions in Beirut, after blocking such action for several weeks.