Hezbollah‘s new leader, Naim Qassem, announced on Wednesday that the group could agree to a ceasefire with Israel, provided specific conditions are met. This offer comes amid increased Israeli military actions in Lebanon.
Qassem took over Hezbollah’s leadership after the assassination of Hassan Nasrallah by Israel last month. In his first public statement, Qassem mentioned that Hezbollah could continue resisting Israeli attacks for months but is open to negotiating a truce if Israel presents an offer.
“If the Israelis decide that they want to stop the aggression, we say we accept, but under the conditions that we see as appropriate and suitable,” he said, emphasising that Hezbollah would not plead for a ceasefire and has not yet received a credible offer.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed cautious optimism about a potential ceasefire in the near future. Meanwhile, Israel’s security cabinet is discussing possible terms for a truce. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen stated, “There are discussions, I think it will still take time.”
Reports indicate that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed demands for a 60-day truce, including Hezbollah’s withdrawal to the north of the Litani River and the deployment of the Lebanese army along the border.
‘Act forcefully’
An international mechanism to enforce the truce is proposed, but Israel seeks a guarantee of freedom of action in case of threats. “Israel can come in a position of strength after the entire Hezbollah leadership was eliminated and over 2,000 Hezbollah terrorist infrastructures were hit,” said Cohen.
The US is sending officials to Israel to engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflicts in both Gaza and Lebanon. Explosions were reported in Baalbek, and Israeli strikes on Sohmor resulted in casualties.
Hezbollah claimed responsibility for rocket attacks on northern Israel and a military training camp south of Tel Aviv.
Since September 23, the conflict in Lebanon has resulted in major casualties. Israel has lost 37 soldiers since starting ground operations on September 30.
In Gaza, mediators are working on a short-term truce proposal. A recent Israeli strike in Gaza killed nearly 100 people, drawing international condemnation.
Short-term truce?
Talks involving Israeli, US, and Qatari officials considered a short-term truce, involving the exchange of hostages and increased aid to Gaza, aiming for a possible permanent agreement.
Hamas has shown willingness to discuss ceasefire proposals but insists on an Israeli withdrawal.
Tuesday’s strike in Beit Lahia caused numerous civilian casualties, leading to criticism from the UN and the US State Department. Hamas’s October 2023 attack on Israel resulted in significant casualties, and Israel’s response has caused substantial deaths in Gaza.