US Pushes New Initiative to Reduce Lebanon-Israel Tensions

An American initiative aimed at ending the recent military escalation between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has been presented by Washington to both countries, according to a report from Axios.

The report cited a senior US official who revealed that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held discussions within the past 48 hours with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. These talks were intended to advance a new ceasefire proposal.

The official explained that the initiative was introduced amid ongoing negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, with another round of diplomatic talks between representatives from both sides scheduled for this week in Washington.

As part of the proposal, the US suggested that Hezbollah halt all attacks on Israel as an initial step to facilitate the negotiations. In exchange, Israel would refrain from escalating military actions in Beirut.

The official expressed that this approach could create conditions for a gradual reduction in tensions and an effective cessation of military hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.

Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri claimed he could ensure Hezbollah’s compliance with a ceasefire but insisted that Israel must first cease fire, despite the official noting that Hezbollah initiated this round of fighting.

The official also stated that Hezbollah follows Tehran’s directives and has no concern for the welfare of the Lebanese people. According to the official, Iran aims to prolong the conflict in Lebanon to claim credit for resolving the situation.

Emphasizing the US position, the official said that the United States does not expect Israel to endure ongoing attacks by a terrorist organization targeting civilians.

The official concluded by asserting that the quickest way to halt the escalation and protect civilians on both sides is for Hezbollah to immediately cease fire.