Ceasefire Proposals Reportedly Approved, US Envoy Arrives In Lebanon

Impact of Israeli attacks on Beirut Lebanon/DOK UNICEF

JAKARTA - The United States (US) envoy Amos Hochstein arrived in Beirut, Lebanon. His visit was seen as a sign of progress in negotiations for a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, but that did not mean an agreement would soon be reached.

Beirut has responded positively to a US-backed proposal to stop the war, according to Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Makati, reported by CNN, Tuesday, November 19.

But Israeli sources familiar with the negotiations cast doubt on the possibility of a deal reaching, and expressed Hezbollah's refusal to accept Israel's demands for the right to attack the group in the event of a ceasefire violation could jeopardize the process.

Lebanon and Hezbollah reportedly agreed to a proposed ceasefire with Israel submitted by the United States, Lebanese top officials told Reuters. This illustrates the most serious attempt to end the war.

Ali Hassan Khalil, aide to Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, said Lebanon had submitted its written response to the US Ambassador in Lebanon on Monday, as White House envoy Amos Hochstein was on his way to Beirut to resume talks.

"Lebanon commented on the document in a positive atmosphere," Khalil said, refusing to provide further details.

"All the comments we convey affirm appropriate compliance with Resolution (PBB) 1701 with all the provisions," he said.