Israel reported progress in ceasefire negotiations with Lebanon and suggested that Russia could play a role by stopping Hezbollah from obtaining arms through Syria. Despite recent heavy conflict, Hezbollah, backed by Iran, stated it has not received official proposals for a truce and is prepared to continue fighting. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar emphasized that enforcement would be crucial for any ceasefire, including Hezbollah's withdrawal from the border area and restrictions on weapon supplies through Syria. Russia's presence in Syria, as an ally of the Assad regime, might enable it to help enforce these terms. The U.S. has been mediating discussions, with drafts reportedly being exchanged. This diplomatic push, potentially driven by the upcoming U.S. presidential transition, comes after escalating violence along the border over the past year, which displaced over a million in Lebanon and resulted in thousands of casualties on both sides.
