Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given his approval 'in principle' to the emerging ceasefire deal with Hezbollah, according to a source familiar with the matter. However, Israel still has reservations regarding certain details of the agreement, which are expected to be conveyed to the Lebanese government. The finalization of the agreement is contingent upon the resolution of all outstanding issues, with multiple sources emphasizing that the deal is not yet finalized.
For the ceasefire agreement to come into effect, it will also need to be endorsed by the Israeli cabinet, a step that is yet to take place. Negotiations are ongoing, and while progress is being made, there is recognition that any misstep could derail the talks. Hezbollah is reportedly considering a US-backed proposal for a 60-day cessation of hostilities, which some believe could pave the way for a lasting ceasefire.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated in mid-September when Israel launched a significant offensive in Lebanon. This offensive followed months of border skirmishes that began in October the previous year when Hezbollah attacked Israeli-controlled territory in solidarity with Hamas and Palestinians in Gaza. The ensuing conflict has seen Israel conduct a ground invasion, eliminate several key Hezbollah figures – including one of its founders, Hassan Nasrallah – and cause injuries to thousands of individuals through a campaign involving exploding pagers.
