A high-ranking American diplomat has engaged in discussions with Israeli officials and is scheduled to visit Lebanon in an effort by the US to ease tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.
Amos Hochstein, the US envoy, arrived in Israel on Monday and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
Gallant’s office highlighted the ongoing attacks by Hezbollah on Israel’s northern border and the Israeli military’s actions to counter these threats during the meeting with Hochstein.
The discussions between Minister Gallant and Mr. Hochstein delved into the security situation in the region and its broader implications.
Hochstein’s trip comes at a critical time as concerns mount over a potential full-scale conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, with the risk of sparking a wider regional crisis.
Hezbollah has intensified its assaults on Israel following the recent loss of a key commander in a strike by Israel in southern Lebanon.
Despite the frequent attacks on Israeli military positions, Hezbollah has refrained from launching new offensives since Saturday, coinciding with Hochstein’s visit and the Eid al-Adha holiday.
The Israeli military reported the elimination of a Hezbollah member in a drone strike on Monday, identifying him as a significant figure in the group’s rocket division.
Reports suggest that Hochstein is engaged in indirect negotiations with Hezbollah, facilitated by Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a known ally of the group, in a bid to reach a preliminary agreement to de-escalate tensions.
The diplomatic efforts aim to pave the way for a peaceful resolution and prevent further escalation in the region.
Source: www.aljazeera.com