Diplomatic Tactical Maneuvers: U.S. Push for Lebanon-Israel Ceasefire

The U.S. has called on Lebanon for a unilateral ceasefire with Israel to advance stalled peace talks involving Hezbollah. However, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati denied any such proposal. Diplomatic efforts are focused on realizing UN Resolution 1701 to curb hostilities. Hezbollah's agreement is crucial for progress.

The United States has reportedly urged Lebanon to declare a unilateral ceasefire with Israel to advance stalled peace discussions involving Hezbollah, according to senior Lebanese political and diplomatic sources. However, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati firmly denied receiving any such request from the U.S.

The diplomatic initiative, allegedly communicated by U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein, aims to foster a truce between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. The effort underscores the desire to implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended a previous conflict between the adversaries in 2006.

Despite Hezbollah's significant political influence in Lebanon, a unilateral ceasefire remains contentious. Any potential ceasefire agreement would require Hezbollah's approval, given its substantial parliamentary sway and alignment with Speaker Nabih Berri. Meanwhile, the U.S. continues to press for a limited ceasefire as groundwork for a broader resolution.

(With inputs from agencies.)