The United States is leading a new diplomatic initiative aimed at de-escalating hostilities in both Gaza and Lebanon, treating the two conflicts as interconnected within a single framework. This effort is currently being discussed at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, as reported by multiple sources familiar with the initiative, including two Lebanese officials, two Western diplomats, and individuals knowledgeable about Hezbollah’s perspective and the ongoing negotiations, reports Reuters.

This diplomatic push marks a significant departure from previous approaches, as it would be the first time that the US has linked the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon in its peace efforts. According to a senior Lebanese official, this comprehensive deal could potentially facilitate the release of hostages taken by Hamas during its attack on Israel on October 7, which has since escalated tensions in the region.

Two Lebanese officials emphasized the necessity of a packaged agreement, asserting that without a combined approach, reaching a ceasefire or resolution would be nearly impossible. “If you don’t put together a package, it’s impossible to get an agreement and the war won’t stop,” one official remarked.

Both the senior Lebanese official and the source familiar with Hezbollah’s thinking conveyed that Hezbollah is open to any settlement that encompasses both Gaza and Lebanon, highlighting a willingness to engage in discussions that could lead to a broader resolution of the ongoing conflicts.

As the situation develops, the White House National Security Council has not yet commented on these discussions, leaving the diplomatic community and regional stakeholders closely monitoring the initiative’s progress and potential impact on the volatile dynamics in the region.

US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday stated an all-out war was possible in the Middle East but there was also the possibility of a settlement in Israel’s conflicts in Gaza and with Hezbollah.

“An all-out war is possible, but I think there’s also the opportunity – we’re still in play to have a settlement that can fundamentally change the whole region,” Biden said in an appearance on ABC’s “The View.”

(With agency inputs)