Shafaqna India: On Wednesday, the United States sent an envoy to Lebanon to help ease tensions driven by Iran and Hezbollah’s threats to strike Israel in retaliation for the assassination of two key Middle Eastern figures. The prospect of de-escalation in the volatile region hinges on a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, which was disrupted by the killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last month.
Hamas further dampened hopes for a truce by refusing to participate in new talks, raising concerns that Iran might retaliate against Tel Aviv. Senior Iranian officials have indicated that only a Gaza ceasefire would prevent direct Iranian action.
Amos Hochstein, the U.S. envoy, aims to secure a truce to avoid a wider conflict, stressing that no one desires an all-out war between Lebanon and Israel. A Gaza ceasefire could also end the 10-month exchange of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, which was a priority for Hochstein during his visit to Beirut.
In a Beirut news conference, Hochstein mentioned that he and Nabih Berri, the Lebanese parliament speaker and Hezbollah ally, discussed the Gaza ceasefire framework, agreeing that there is no time for further delays. Hochstein emphasized that this deal could pave the way for a diplomatic solution in Lebanon and avert a broader war.
Hochstein warned that prolonged tensions increase the risk of accidents that could escalate out of control. He expressed optimism that the conflict could end now, given that no party truly seeks a full-scale war between Lebanon and Israel.
Hezbollah has consistently stated that it would only cease hostilities once a Gaza ceasefire is achieved.
