Official diplomatic statements or international news reports

Blinken: Lebanon Ceasefire Deal Nears, Could End Gaza Conflict

Nov 26, 2024, 05:14 PM

U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken announced that the U.S. and its partners, including France, are in the final stages of securing a ceasefire agreement for Lebanon. Blinken emphasized the significance of this effort, stating that it would make a substantial difference by allowing civilians to return to their homes in northern Israel and southern Lebanon. He also noted that a ceasefire in Lebanon could help end the conflict in Gaza, preventing Hamas from relying on other fronts in the conflict. Hezbollah's ability to attack Israel has increased due to the incomplete implementation of UN Resolution 1701, but now there is an opportunity to fully implement it. The diplomatic efforts have been intensive, aiming to deescalate tensions and prevent the conflict from escalating into a broader regional war.