US diplomat rushes between Beirut and Tel Aviv to stop Lebanon border clashes
US envoy seeks deal between Israel and Hezbollah after two months of cross-border fighting. Progress made in Beirut talks while Israel demands strict security measures near its northern border
In mid-november‚ Amos Hochstein arrived to Beirut seeking peace deal between Israel and Hezbollah; his meetings with Lebanese officials showed some good results
The US envoy met with parliament speaker Nabih Berri twice and got feedback from Hezbollah about the peace draft. “The meeting today built on the meeting yesterday and made additional progress“ Hochstein said before his planned trip to Tel-Aviv
Hezbollahʼs deputy Sheikh Naim Qassem stated that the groups response was shared with US side - the final decision now depends on Netanyahuʼs real interest in peace (while mentioning that militant group is ready for long-term fight)
Israel wants these key-points in the deal:
- No Hezbollah presence south of Litani river
- No weapons manufacturing in Lebanon
- Blocked weapon imports through borders sea and air
- Freedom to act if agreement is broken
The conflict that started in sept has caused big damage in both countries. Lebanese health ministry counts about 3‚500 dead while Israel lost 43 people in north and 73 soldiers in fights near border
The deal would be based on old UN rules from 06 that say only Lebanese army can have weapons near Israel border. But both sides dont trust each other: Israel says Hezbollah didnt follow rules Lebanon says Israel breaks them all time
The peace talks happen while Trump is set to take office in jan - Hochstein noted: “Were going to work with incoming administration; theyll be fully aware of whats happening“
