US envoy sees ceasefire chance in Israel-Hezbollah conflict

US envoy Amos Hochstein announced a “real opportunity” to end the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, signaling progress in Washington’s pursuit of a ceasefire. Speaking after talks with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Hochstein said, “It is now within our grasp. As the window is now, I hope the coming days yield a resolute decision.”

This development follows Lebanon’s written response to a U.S. ceasefire proposal, endorsed by Iran-backed Hezbollah and Speaker Berri. However, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen tempered optimism, stating, “Israel will make an arrangement only if all our demands are met,” including Hezbollah’s retreat from the border and guarantees of Israeli security.

The announcement comes as violence intensifies. Israeli airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs have escalated, targeting Hezbollah strongholds and killing at least two civilians in the Chiyah district, according to the Lebanese health ministry. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has launched dozens of projectiles into northern Israel, where civilian and military casualties continue to rise.

The conflict, which spiraled into full-scale war in September, has displaced over 1 million people in Lebanon and caused significant loss of life on both sides. World powers have urged adherence to U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for Hezbollah to move fighters and weapons north of the Litani River, creating a buffer zone.

As Hochstein’s efforts mark a critical juncture, the outcome could define the region’s future. With both sides far apart on key demands, the prospect of a ceasefire hangs precariously, even as diplomatic momentum builds.