Potential Ceasefire in Gaza Prior to Ramadan
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has revealed details of meetings held in Beirut with US President Joe Biden’s Senior Advisor Amos Hochstein, who is working to mediate between Lebanon and Israel. Speaking at a program organized by Beirut-based Al Jadeed News TV, Mikati mentioned the possibility of reaching a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip before Ramadan.
Mikati stated that discussions are underway to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, which has been under continuous Israeli attacks for the past five months. He expressed optimism that an agreement could be reached before the holy month of Ramadan. Additionally, Mikati mentioned that negotiations regarding Lebanon will also take place during Ramadan.
During the meetings with Hochstein, no written agreement proposal was presented, but rather suggestions were conveyed verbally. Mikati confirmed that Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nebih Berri is reviewing the proposals, and they are awaiting responses to questions posed by Lebanon.
Highlighting the importance of Israel ceasing its violations against Lebanon, Mikati emphasized that a ceasefire in Gaza alone is insufficient. He warned that if Israeli attacks continue, the southern front will remain a point of contention.
Following his discussions in Beirut, Hochstein also met with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in Tel Aviv today. The ongoing efforts to negotiate peace and stability in the region continue as Lebanon seeks to address the challenges posed by external pressures and internal threats.
