U.S. Special Envoy in Lebanon: A Ceasefire Agreement Must Be Reached Now, No More Excuses for Delay

The U.S. special envoy warned during a visit to Beirut that time is running out for a ceasefire in Gaza and an agreement on the release of hostages, which could also help end ten months of cross-border conflicts between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. Amid coordinated U.S. pressure to prevent regional tensions from escalating into a full-scale war, Amos Hochstein arrived in Beirut today. According to AFP, Hochstein stated in a press conference that he and Nabih Berri, the Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament and an ally of Hezbollah, discussed the 'framework agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza' and agreed that there is no more time to waste and no excuses for further delays. The U.S. envoy emphasized that 'this agreement would also aid in diplomatic resolution in Lebanon and prevent the outbreak of a wider war,' adding, 'We must use this window for diplomatic action and solutions. The time is now.' Amos Hochstein expressed his belief that a war between Israel and Hezbollah, which is supported by the Iranian government, can be avoided. When asked during the press conference whether Israel and Hezbollah could avoid war, Hochstein replied, 'I hope so, I believe so.' Tensions in the Middle East have intensified in recent days, with speculation about a direct attack by the Islamic Republic and its proxy forces on Israel and the further escalation of war in the region becoming a media topic. Following the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, a senior leader of Hamas, which is recognized as a terrorist organization by many countries, the Islamic Republic promised to take retaliatory action. Ambiguity surrounds the success of ceasefire efforts in Gaza; The New York Times reported that Hamas rejected participation in negotiations. The Pentagon stated that the likelihood of an attack by the Islamic Republic or its proxies this week 'definitely' exists, and we are prepared to support Israel. Joe Biden stated, 'I expect' the Islamic Republic not to attack Israel if a ceasefire is reached in Gaza. The Israeli Defense Minister said, 'We are monitoring closely what is happening in Tehran and Beirut.' Reuters cited three Iranian officials stating that a ceasefire in Gaza would deter the Iranian government from attacking Israel. The Washington Post reported that the Islamic Republic is concerned about the 'neutralization' of its nuclear program in the event of a large-scale attack on Israel. An Israeli official told Voice of America that we are preparing for various scenarios against the Islamic Republic and its proxies.