The United States, along with other mediators, is intensifying efforts to bring an end to the conflicts in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip. New proposals are being circulated to de-escalate the regional turmoil as the Biden administration nears its final months.
Negotiations on both fronts have hit a standstill, with none of the warring factions showing any willingness to compromise on their demands.
Senior White House officials are engaging in talks with Israeli counterparts to explore potential cease-fires in both Lebanon and Gaza, as well as the release of hostages held by Hamas. The U.S. is also coordinating with Egypt on these initiatives.
One proposal aims to resolve the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah by implementing a two-month cease-fire, during which Israeli forces would withdraw from Lebanon, and Hezbollah would cease its armed presence along the southern border of the country.
However, challenges remain as Israel is hesitant to rely solely on U.N. peacekeepers and Lebanese troops to prevent Hezbollah's return to a designated buffer zone in Lebanon. Israel seeks the ability to respond to any threats posed by the militants.
In a separate effort, the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar have put forward a four-week cease-fire plan for Gaza, contingent on Hamas releasing a number of hostages. Hamas, on the other hand, is adamant about securing a lasting cease-fire and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Efforts are also being made to revive U.N. Security Council resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war. The resolution calls for a cease-fire between the two parties, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, and the presence of U.N. peacekeepers and the Lebanese army in the designated area.
Hezbollah's new leader has expressed willingness to consider a cease-fire under certain conditions, while Israel has not publicly responded to the proposed resolution.
Discussions are ongoing regarding various cease-fire proposals, with one suggesting an immediate truce followed by a two-month period for full implementation of the resolution.
The roadmap for Lebanon includes deploying additional U.N. peacekeepers and Lebanese troops in the border area, as Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters withdraw. However, the disarmament of armed groups, including Hezbollah, is not part of the initial phase.
Israel has emphasized the need to prevent Hezbollah from rearming and to maintain the ability to address threats within the buffer zone.
In Gaza, a temporary cease-fire proposal has been made, with the release of hostages and increased humanitarian aid as key components. Hamas is seeking a lasting resolution, an Israeli withdrawal, and the release of Palestinian prisoners.
While mediators remain cautious about the prospects of success, efforts are ongoing to facilitate cease-fires in both Lebanon and Gaza.
