US proposes phased de-escalation plan between Israel and Lebanon
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed diplomatic efforts between Israel and Lebanon with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and proposed a plan aimed at achieving a gradual de-escalation, a US official said on Sunday.
Under the proposal, the Iran-backed Hezbollah group would halt all attacks on Israel as a first step, while Israel would refrain from further escalation in Beirut.
“This would create space for gradual de-escalation and an effective cessation of hostilities,” the official said.
According to the official, Aoun sought to advance the proposal and secure agreement from the parties involved.
However, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who said he could guarantee Hezbollah's commitment to a ceasefire, argued that Israel should first stop initiating military action.
