Breakthrough in Ceasefire Talks: Israel and Hezbollah on the Brink of Peace

Israel is set to approve a U.S.-mediated ceasefire with Lebanon's Hezbollah to end conflict ignited by the Gaza war. The ceasefire may be declared by Presidents Biden and Macron, with significant progress made. The agreement involves Israeli troop withdrawal and U.N. enforcement, while Lebanon faces huge reconstruction challenges.

In a significant development, Israel is on the brink of approving a U.S.-backed ceasefire with Lebanon's Hezbollah, potentially ending a conflict that has claimed thousands of lives since the Gaza war began over a year ago. The ceasefire discussions have found consensus among major stakeholders, with Israeli and U.S. leaders set to announce a truce as soon as it gains formal approval from Israel's security cabinet.

The negotiations involve a proposed withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon and the deployment of Lebanon's army in Hezbollah strongholds. Despite recent escalations with Israeli airstrikes in Beirut and rocket attacks on Israel's cities, the ceasefire would allow displaced residents to return and offer hope for reconstruction in Lebanon.

The diplomatic efforts, rooted in past U.N. resolutions to curb hostilities, reflect international pressure to stabilize the region. Washington, in coordination with French President Emmanuel Macron, is driving this peace initiative, acknowledging the complex challenges ahead as both sides take cautious steps toward sustainable peace.

(With inputs from agencies.)