U.S. Leads Unprecedented Diplomatic Effort to Link Gaza and Lebanon Conflicts

The United States is initiating a unique diplomatic strategy to address the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon simultaneously. Details are being negotiated at the UN General Assembly. This initiative aims to end hostilities and could involve the release of hostages taken by Hamas. Hezbollah is open to a joint settlement.

The United States is spearheading a unique diplomatic initiative aimed at ending ongoing hostilities in both Gaza and Lebanon, sources familiar with the project told Reuters.

Negotiations are currently ongoing at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, according to reports from two Lebanese officials, two Western diplomats, a source aligned with Hezbollah, and another source involved in the talks. The White House National Security Council has yet to comment.

This marks the first instance in which the U.S. efforts to connect the two conflicts as part of a single diplomatic push. The initiative could lead to the release of hostages seized by Hamas during their October 7 attack on Israel, affirm multiple sources familiar with the talks.

A senior Lebanese official and sources close to Hezbollah told Reuters that a comprehensive package deal is essential for stopping the ongoing war. Hezbollah indicated their willingness to support any settlement that considers both Gaza and Lebanon.

(With inputs from agencies.)