Ceasefire Hopes Amid Rising Tensions: U.S. Mediates Between Israel and Hezbollah

U.S. mediators propose a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah to halt escalating hostilities. The ceasefire is intended to enforce UN Resolution 1701. Tensions rise as Israel continues its offensive, attacking Baalbek. Lebanon experiences mass evacuations, while diplomatic efforts face challenges in preventing further conflict.

Efforts to broker peace between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified, with U.S. mediators proposing a 60-day ceasefire, although Israel presses on with its military campaign in Lebanon. The truce aims to enforce UN Resolution 1701, but obstacles remain as hostility escalates.

The proposal comes amid heightened tensions, with Israeli forces targeting the Lebanese city of Baalbek following a mass evacuation order. The situation is dire, with tens of thousands of residents fleeing, leading to overcrowding in shelter areas. Local authorities have urgently called for governmental support to accommodate the influx of displaced individuals.

As diplomatic channels work toward a resolution, Hezbollah's new leader, Naim Qassem, has expressed a conditional willingness to agree to a ceasefire. However, ongoing clashes in southern Lebanon underscore the challenges of implementing a sustainable peace agreement.

(With inputs from agencies.)