Israel and Hezbollah Signal Readiness for Talks, Mediators Report

Hezbollah has consistently stated that it will cease its attacks if Israel ends its conflict with Hamas in Gaza. Should this occur, both Israel and Hezbollah have indicated a willingness to start negotiations for a formal ceasefire, according to three Western officials and an Israeli official who spoke to the New York Times.

These negotiations would likely address the withdrawal of Hezbollah fighters from southern Lebanon and the increased deployment of Lebanon’s official military forces in those areas, the officials noted. Additionally, discussions would focus on the demarcation of the westernmost parts of the border between the two countries.

Even if these talks do not succeed, the goal is that initiating them might help both sides maintain an informal ceasefire and encourage displaced residents to return home, the officials suggested.

The New York Times reported that despite the ongoing retaliatory strikes and public rhetoric, both Israel and Hezbollah seem to be privately seeking a way to de-escalate the situation without appearing to lose face.

An Arab official informed on Iran’s stance mentioned that Iran desires a ceasefire in Gaza to protect Hezbollah, believing it could also lead to a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.