US efforts to mediate between Israel, Hezbollah face challenges
Amid Gaza conflict

WORLD  29 June 2024 - 11:34

US officials are working to de-escalate tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, which have brought Lebanon to the brink of war.

This effort is complicated by ongoing attempts to negotiate a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The situation intensified after Israel assassinated a senior Hezbollah commander, prompting significant rocket retaliation from the militant group, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Countries like Germany and Canada have advised their citizens to leave Lebanon due to the escalating conflict. While the US has not yet issued evacuation orders, it has deployed the USS Wasp with Marines ready for potential evacuations. Hezbollah demands a halt to Israel's Gaza offensive before standing down in Lebanon.

US and Israeli officials aim for an agreement to reduce Hezbollah's threat and allow displaced residents to return. However, analysts believe Hezbollah is unlikely to agree without a permanent Gaza cease-fire. Draft agreements include moving Hezbollah's heavy weapons away from the Israeli border and offering reconstruction funds for Lebanon.

Hezbollah has reiterated that it will cease hostilities if the war in Gaza stops. US diplomatic efforts, led by Amos Hochstein, are ongoing, with Qatar also assisting in mediation. Despite the challenges, US officials remain hopeful for a diplomatic resolution, though backup de-escalation options are being explored.

Israel, while preparing for various scenarios, emphasizes it does not seek war with Hezbollah but will protect its northern communities. The risk of a broader conflict involving the US remains, with fears that continued targeted killings of Hezbollah members could provoke further retaliation.

Hezbollah, possessing advanced military capabilities and tunnel networks, poses a significant challenge. Experts warn that a conflict with Hezbollah could turn out badly for all parties involved. Negotiations continue, but the risk of miscalculations leading to war is high, potentially drawing the US into the conflict.

Caliber.Az