Beirut, Lebanon, Nov 20 (V7N )— US special envoy Amos Hochstein expressed optimism Tuesday that an end to the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict could be within reach, as he held talks with Lebanese officials in Beirut about a potential ceasefire plan.

Following nearly a year of deadly skirmishes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, the conflict expanded in late September, with Israel shifting its focus from Gaza to the northern border, aiming to secure its position in Lebanon. The conflict has displaced thousands of people and led to significant loss of life on both sides.

Hochstein, in his meeting with Hezbollah-allied Speaker Nabih Berri, suggested that there is "a real opportunity" for a resolution, although he emphasized that any ceasefire decision would ultimately rest with the parties involved.

Berri expressed a cautiously optimistic view, saying that "the situation is good, in principle" and that there were only "some technical details" left to finalize. Hochstein also met with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and army chief Joseph Aoun to discuss the matter further.

While the Lebanese government has shown a positive outlook on the truce, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cautioned that Israel would continue operations against Hezbollah, even if a ceasefire is reached. Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel's commitment to ensuring security on its northern border, particularly against Hezbollah's ongoing rocket and missile attacks.

The conflict, ignited by Hezbollah’s support of Hamas after its assault on Israel in October 2023, has seen over 3,500 fatalities in Lebanon, with hundreds more injured. As diplomatic efforts intensify, the international community, including the US and France, is pressing for a resolution under UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for Lebanese and UN peacekeepers to patrol southern Lebanon and prevent further hostilities.

However, experts remain cautious about the prospects of a swift ceasefire, with concerns over Hezbollah's proximity to the Israeli border complicating peace efforts.

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