WASHINGTON: The United States has proposed a new plan aimed at reducing tensions between Israel and Lebanon as fighting between Israeli forces and Hezbollah continues despite a ceasefire announced more than six weeks ago.
According to a US official, Washington has suggested that Hezbollah halt all attacks on Israel as an initial step, while Israel would refrain from escalating military operations in Beirut.
The proposal was discussed during separate contacts by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“This would create space for gradual de-escalation and an effective cessation of hostilities,” the US official said.
The official added that President Aoun sought to advance the proposal and secure agreement from all sides. However, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who has said he can guarantee Hezbollah’s commitment to a ceasefire, argued that Israel should stop initiating attacks.
The diplomatic efforts come as violence continues along the Israel-Lebanon border. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that he had ordered troops to move further into Lebanon in operations against Hezbollah.
The Israeli military said its forces had recently captured the historic Beaufort Castle and a strategic ridge in southern Lebanon. The advance followed one of the heaviest days of Hezbollah rocket and missile fire toward northern Israel since the April ceasefire, prompting school closures and security restrictions in affected areas.
The US official said Washington does not expect Israel to tolerate continued attacks on its civilian population, underscoring the urgency of efforts to prevent further escalation.
