Exclusive: Israel Promotes Draft Agreement Involving Iran and Russia – What’s In?

Israel has renewed discussions about a potential settlement regarding the ongoing conflict with Lebanon, sparking concerns that this may be another tactical maneuver by American and Israeli officials amid the conflict’s escalation. These concerns have been fueled by reports of a new visit by U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein to the region, aiming to push for a temporary truce followed by negotiations. However, many remain cautious, as Hochstein’s past efforts have frequently coincided with heightened Israeli military actions.

Meanwhile, Israel’s media has been promoting a positive atmosphere, suggesting the possibility of a temporary ceasefire along the northern border with Lebanon. According to Channel 12, Israel is considering a limited ceasefire as a strategy to preempt an unfavorable United Nations Security Council decision. This development comes at a time when international pressure on Israel is mounting, particularly from U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration, which has urged a de-escalation in Lebanon and Gaza.

Channel 12 also cited sources close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, revealing that the negotiations involve Israel, Lebanon, Russia, the United States, and Iran. This provisional arrangement outlines a 60-day ceasefire, during which the Israeli military would maintain a minimal presence near the Lebanese border until the Lebanese army assumes full control of the area.

In parallel, Yedioth Ahronoth reported ongoing exchanges of draft ceasefire agreements between Israel and the U.S., indicating progress in negotiations. According to the report, Hochstein has been discussing drafts with Lebanese leaders Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Najib Mikati. The newspaper also quoted sources familiar with the matter as saying that there has been “significant progress” in the talks, hinting that a ceasefire agreement is within reach. However, Lebanese sources confirmed to Al-Akhbar that no official draft has been received by any Lebanese officials.

This promotion of a draft deal is causing internal debates within Israel. Former Defense Minister Benny Gantz remarked, “Our main goal in the north is to ensure the safe return of settlers. For that to happen quickly, we cannot agree to a one-sided ceasefire, even under international pressure. We need to intensify our actions in Lebanon and secure a deal that neutralizes Hezbollah while allowing Israel operational freedom against any violations.”

This development comes as Israel’s Minister of Strategic Affairs, Ron Dermer, is set to visit Washington. Israeli media reported that Dermer had recently made a secret visit to Russia to discuss Lebanon, and that his Washington trip aims to finalize the draft agreement with Lebanon.

Additionally, Yedioth Ahronoth cited American officials suggesting that the chances of reaching a ceasefire agreement in the north are increasing under Hochstein’s leadership, with encouragement from President-elect Donald Trump. Reports indicate that Trump has sent a message to the Biden administration, urging swift progress toward de-escalation in northern Israel, with his administration poised to continue these efforts.

The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation also noted “substantial progress” in northern border negotiations, with Israel Hayom quoting a political official as describing the proposed deal as “very favorable to Israel’s interests.” American sources echoed this sentiment, acknowledging advances in talks and the realistic possibility of a northern settlement.

Ynet also referenced American sources observing that international pressure on Israel, particularly from the Biden administration, is intensifying as calls to halt military actions in Gaza and Lebanon grow. Israeli sources noted that Tel Aviv is hopeful for a northern settlement to ease military and diplomatic pressures.