As tensions rise in Lebanon, US envoy Amos Hochstein is set to visit Beirut on 19 November 2024 for discussions aimed at brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. The ongoing conflict has escalated recently, particularly following Israeli airstrikes in central Beirut that led to multiple fatalities.
US Proposal and Lebanese Concerns
Hochstein’s upcoming visit comes in the wake of a ceasefire proposal delivered to Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri last week. Reports indicate that Lebanon views Washington’s efforts positively but is keen on revising certain aspects of the proposal, particularly regarding the monitoring of a ceasefire.
- Beirut supports increased diplomatic contacts with the US.
- Concerns arise over expanding the ceasefire monitoring committee to include countries like Germany or Britain.
- The Lebanese authorities are adamant about the Lebanese army controlling any potential issues surrounding Hezbollah’s operations.
The Ongoing Conflict
Since September, Israel has intensified its offensive against Hezbollah, targeting areas including the Hezbollah-controlled suburbs of Beirut. Recent strikes have resulted in significant casualties, including the death of a senior Hezbollah official.
According to Lebanese officials, the humanitarian toll has been steep, with over 3,481 deaths reported in Lebanon since the escalation began, highlighting the urgency for a functional truce. This situation has uprooted more than one million individuals in the region.
International Mandates and Local Positioning
The potential ceasefire discussions are reportedly based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which effectively sought to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah during the 2006 war. The resolution stipulates that Hezbollah should reposition its fighters and arms northward of the Litani River—approximately 30 km from the Israeli border—though Israel has raised objections related to past compliance.
The dual obligations of both parties underline the challenges in reaching an agreement that satisfies international bodies while also addressing local concerns. Lebanon has rejected Israeli demands that would give it the freedom to act if Hezbollah violated any ceasefire terms.
Civilians in Crisis
For many Lebanese, the conflict has become a nightmare. Reports from affected areas describe harrowing scenes, such as residents navigating through rubble and ash in search of loved ones. The emotional toll on families caught in this turmoil remains profound as the conflict shows little sign of abating.
Ultimately, attention now turns to how Israel will respond to Hochstein’s discussions in Lebanon—whether it seeks a ceasefire to restore calm or continues its militaristic strategies.