Israel Set to Decide on Ceasefire as US Says Agreement Is ‘Close’

Israel’s security cabinet is expected to vote on a proposed ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon, officials confirmed Tuesday. The White House expressed optimism, suggesting that a deal is nearing conclusion.

Efforts to end the conflict, which escalated into full-scale war in late September, have been led by the United States, European Union, and United Nations. As diplomatic talks intensified, the violence continued to escalate, with Israel reporting over 250 projectiles fired from Hezbollah positions on Sunday. In response, the Israeli military launched strikes, including on Hezbollah’s stronghold in southern Beirut, where plumes of smoke were seen rising. Lebanon’s health ministry reported 31 deaths from Israeli airstrikes in southern regions the day before.

An Israeli official, speaking anonymously, said the security cabinet is set to decide on the ceasefire proposal Tuesday evening. US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby noted, “We believe we’re close” to finalizing the agreement.

Diplomatic Efforts and Ceasefire Details
The United States and France have been leading negotiations. France reported “significant progress,” while Italy, holding the G7 presidency, expressed “optimism.” US-based Axios outlined the proposed agreement, which includes a 60-day transition: Israeli forces would withdraw, the Lebanese army would take control near the border, and Hezbollah would move heavy weapons north of the Litani River. An oversight committee led by the US would monitor implementation, granting Israel authority to act against imminent threats if Lebanese forces failed to intervene.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly inclined to endorse the US-backed proposal. Israel’s UN ambassador Danny Danon stated, “We are moving forward on this front.”

Conflict Toll and Public Concerns
Since October 2023, Lebanon has reported over 3,700 fatalities, most occurring in recent weeks. On the Israeli side, at least 82 soldiers and 47 civilians have died. Civilians on both sides have suffered displacement, with northern Israelis voicing concerns over the ceasefire’s durability.

Critics of the agreement argue it doesn’t go far enough to neutralize Hezbollah. “It’s a mistake to sign as long as Hezbollah still has weapons,” said Maryam Younnes, a student from Maalot-Tarshiha. Displaced teacher Dorit Sison echoed similar sentiments, fearing future conflict under a rushed truce.

Gaza Crisis Persists
In Gaza, Israeli strikes continue, killing 11 people overnight, according to Palestinian civil defense. The UN reported dire humanitarian conditions, with residents scavenging for food amidst widespread devastation. Gaza’s health ministry estimates over 44,000 deaths since the conflict began, numbers deemed reliable by the UN.

The conflict traces back to October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on Israel, killing 1,207 people, predominantly civilians. Israel’s retaliatory campaign in Gaza has resulted in a catastrophic loss of life and infrastructure.

Efforts to broker a truce in Gaza have faltered, with mediators like Qatar stepping back due to perceived lack of seriousness from both sides. As tensions remain high, international pressure for an end to hostilities continues.