France and the United States are on the brink of proposing a 21-day ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah to allow for diplomatic negotiations. The French foreign minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, stated that significant progress had been made on the proposal and urged both parties to accept it promptly in order to protect civilian populations. The potential ceasefire comes at a critical time as tensions between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group escalate, raising concerns of a full-fledged war in the Middle East.
In a recent address to the UN Security Council, Barrot emphasized the importance of the ceasefire in deescalating tensions and creating a pathway towards long-term stability in the region. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also expressed the US’s commitment to working with partners to reach a ceasefire agreement that benefits all parties involved. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly showed openness to the deal, but is seeking the return of Israeli civilians to their homes as part of the agreement.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has voiced his support for the French-US plan and called on the Security Council to ensure Israel’s withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territories. The proposed ceasefire aims to protect civilians, prevent further escalation of violence, and pave the way for diplomatic negotiations to address underlying issues between Israel and Hezbollah. As tensions continue to rise, the international community is closely monitoring developments and urging both parties to accept the ceasefire proposal without delay.
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