U.S. Diplomacy Links Gaza and Lebanon Conflicts in New Ceasefire Initiative

The United States is initiating a new diplomatic effort to link the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, according to multiple sources. Details are being finalized at the United Nations General Assembly. The initiative may lead to the release of hostages seized by Hamas and aims to halt the hostilities fueled by Hezbollah's attacks and Israel's military response.

The United States is leading a new diplomatic effort to end hostilities in both Gaza and Lebanon, linking the two conflicts under a single initiative. This information was confirmed by six sources familiar with the initiative. The details are currently being finalized at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, according to two Lebanese officials, two Western diplomats, a source familiar with Hezbollah's thinking, and a source briefed on the talks.

While the White House National Security Council has not commented, three Israeli officials revealed that the United States and France are working on ceasefire proposals. However, no significant progress has been made. This would mark the first instance of a dual-front U.S. diplomatic effort, according to the sources.

The potential deal may also lead to the release of hostages taken by Hamas during their attack on Israel on Oct. 7 last year, an attack that escalated tensions across the Middle East. The United States has aimed to contain these tensions since the attack.

(With inputs from agencies.)