US proposes de-escalation plan amid Israel-Lebanon tensions

WASHINGTON – The United States has proposed a phased de-escalation plan aimed at reducing hostilities between Israel and Lebanon, as diplomatic efforts continue to prevent further escalation along the border, a US official said on Monday. The official said that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held separate discussions with Joseph Aoun and Benjamin Netanyahu regarding ongoing negotiations between the two sides. Under the proposal, Hezbollah would halt all attacks on Israel as an initial step, while Israel would refrain from expanding military operations in Beirut. The US believes such measures could pave the way for a gradual reduction in tensions and eventually lead to a broader cessation of hostilities. The official said President Aoun attempted to advance the proposal and secure support for the initiative. However, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri reportedly maintained that Israel should stop military action first, despite assurances regarding Hezbollah’s adherence to a ceasefire. The US official described Berri’s response as unsatisfactory and said Washington does not expect Israel to continue absorbing attacks targeting its civilian population. The diplomatic effort comes as fighting along the Israel-Lebanon border continues despite a ceasefire announced more than six weeks ago. On Sunday, Netanyahu said he had instructed Israeli forces to deepen their operations inside Lebanon. The Israeli military announced that its troops had captured the historic Beaufort Castle and a nearby strategic ridge in southern Lebanon. The latest military developments followed one of the heaviest barrages of Hezbollah fire into northern Israel since the ceasefire took effect, prompting authorities to close schools and impose restrictions in affected areas. Hezbollah, meanwhile, has maintained that Israel must end its military actions before any lasting reduction in hostilities can be achieved. The US official accused Hezbollah of following Iran’s regional strate