Hezbollah’s newly appointed leader, Naim Qassem, declared on Wednesday that the organization might consider a ceasefire with Israel, contingent upon the fulfillment of certain conditions. This proposition arises in the context of heightened Israeli military operations in Lebanon.
Qassem assumed leadership of Hezbollah following the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah by Israeli forces last month. In his inaugural public address, Qassem stated that while Hezbollah is capable of resisting Israeli assaults for an extended period, it remains open to discussions regarding a truce if Israel puts forth a proposal. “Should the Israelis choose to halt their aggression, we are willing to accept, but only under terms that we deem appropriate and acceptable,” he asserted, underscoring that Hezbollah will not solicit a ceasefire and has yet to receive a credible offer.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati conveyed a sense of cautious optimism regarding the possibility of a ceasefire occurring soon. Concurrently, Israel’s security cabinet is engaged in deliberations concerning potential conditions for a truce. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen remarked, “Discussions are ongoing, but I believe it will require additional time.”
Furthermore, reports suggest that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has proposed conditions for a 60-day ceasefire, which include the withdrawal of Hezbollah to the northern region of the Litani River and the positioning of the Lebanese army along the border.
Act forcefully’
An international framework for enforcing the ceasefire has been suggested; however, Israel insists on assurances that it will retain the ability to act freely in response to any threats. “Israel can emerge in a position of strength following the complete dismantling of Hezbollah’s leadership and the targeting of over 2,000 Hezbollah terrorist infrastructures,” stated Cohen.
The United States is dispatching officials to Israel to participate in diplomatic initiatives aimed at addressing the conflicts in both Gaza and Lebanon. Reports indicate explosions in Baalbek, and Israeli airstrikes on Sohmor have resulted in casualties.
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for rocket assaults on northern Israel and a military training facility located south of Tel Aviv. Since September 23, the ongoing conflict in Lebanon has led to significant casualties, with Israel reporting the loss of 37 soldiers since the commencement of ground operations on September 30.
In Gaza, mediators are actively pursuing a proposal for a short-term ceasefire. A recent Israeli airstrike in Gaza resulted in nearly 100 fatalities, provoking widespread international condemnation.
