Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recommended a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, aimed at ending over 14 months of fighting linked to the ongoing Gaza war. Despite Israeli bombardment escalating in the hours before the ceasefire proposal, Netanyahu is optimistic that the deal will isolate Hamas and shift Israel's focus to Iran, Hezbollah's backer.

The ceasefire, brokered by the U.S., would temporarily halt fighting between Israel and Hezbollah for two months, with Hezbollah expected to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon and Israeli troops returning to their side of the border. The deal also calls for the deployment of Lebanese and U.N. peacekeepers to monitor compliance. However, implementation remains uncertain, especially as Israel demands the right to retaliate if Hezbollah violates the agreement.

As the ceasefire proposal gains traction, Israeli forces continue to target Hezbollah positions, including strikes on Beirut and southern Lebanon. Hezbollah has also continued launching rockets into northern Israel, further complicating the situation. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, and the potential ceasefire is seen as a critical step to de-escalate tensions in the region.

Despite the optimism, challenges remain, with hard-line Israeli officials, such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, opposing the ceasefire, viewing it as a missed opportunity to eliminate Hezbollah. The agreement, if approved, could have far-reaching consequences for regional stability, particularly in terms of Israel's stance against Iran.