The United States is leading a new diplomatic initiative aimed at resolving conflicts in both Gaza and Lebanon, treating the two situations as interconnected, according to six sources who spoke to Reuters. Ongoing discussions are taking place at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, as reported by two Lebanese officials, two Western diplomats, a source knowledgeable about Hezbollah’s perspective, and another source informed about the negotiations.

The White House National Security Council has not yet responded to a request for comment. Three Israeli officials indicated to Reuters that the U.S. and France are collaborating on ceasefire proposals, although no significant progress has been achieved thus far.

This initiative marks the first instance of linking the two fronts in a U.S. diplomatic effort, as noted by the sources. A senior Lebanese official, along with the source familiar with Hezbollah’s views and the source briefed on the discussions, suggested that the agreement could potentially facilitate the release of hostages taken by the Palestinian group Hamas during the attack on Israel on October 7 of last year, which ignited widespread hostilities in the region.

escalated military operations

Israel has recently escalated its military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of several Hezbollah commanders during a strike on Friday.

Additionally, attacks on Monday reportedly claimed over 550 lives, including 50 children, according to Lebanese health authorities. This escalation has prompted diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions on both fronts.

A senior Lebanese official, along with a source familiar with Hezbollah’s perspective, indicated to Reuters that Hezbollah is “open to any settlement that would encompass both Gaza and Lebanon.” Another Lebanese official emphasized that halting the conflicts would be “impossible” without a comprehensive agreement.

In a development reflecting the urgency of the situation, Lebanon’s caretaker prime minister, Najib Mikati, announced late Monday that he would travel to New York for discussions on the recent events, a trip he had not initially planned.