Hochstein Meets Berri for Second Round

U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein visited Lebanon on Wednesday to negotiate a potential ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah as the conflict between the two escalated in southern Lebanon. The United States and France have led efforts to mediate a truce in the war, which intensified in late September after nearly a year of deadly exchanges between Hezbollah and Israel.

Israel has broadened its military operations from Gaza to Lebanon, aiming to secure its northern border and enable displaced residents to return to their homes. On Tuesday, Hochstein expressed optimism about an end to the conflict, calling it “within our grasp.” Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, allied with Hezbollah, echoed a positive outlook, noting that only “technical details” remained to be finalized.

Hochstein held meetings with several Lebanese officials, including caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Army chief General Joseph Aoun, and Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea. Discussions with Berri continued on Wednesday, following a lengthy meeting with his aide the previous day to address technical aspects of the proposed agreement. A Lebanon-based diplomat described the talks as showing “progress,” though Israel’s position on the plan remains uncertain.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel would continue military operations against Hezbollah, even in the event of a ceasefire, to prevent the group from rebuilding its capabilities. Since expanding its operations into Lebanon, Israel has carried out extensive airstrikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds and has deployed ground forces in southern Lebanon. On Tuesday, Israel reported one soldier killed and three others injured in combat.

The conflict has taken a devastating toll in Lebanon, with over 3,500 fatalities reported since the fighting began, including more than 200 children, according to the United Nations. Hezbollah’s territory has suffered significant damage, and the group’s leader, Sheikh Naim Qassem, announced plans to deliver a televised address on Wednesday.

While Beirut and its surrounding areas remained relatively calm during Hochstein’s visit, southern Lebanon continued to witness intense fighting. Israeli forces engaged in battles with Hezbollah near the border town of Khiam, where heavy shelling, airstrikes, and artillery fire were reported. Israel also claimed to have targeted over 100 Hezbollah positions in the past day, including weapon depots and command centers.

The U.S. has advocated for a ceasefire based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel. The resolution stipulates that only Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers are authorized to operate in southern Lebanon. However, the ongoing conflict has also claimed the lives of several Lebanese soldiers, with four killed in Israeli strikes this week.

Hezbollah stated on Tuesday that it carried out multiple attacks on Israeli forces near the border, while Israel reported attempts to expand its military presence in the region. Clashes between the two sides remain fierce, further complicating efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire.