Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer made a secret visit to Russia last week, according to Army Radio on Sunday, in what appears to be part of Israel’s efforts to broker a ceasefire with Hezbollah amid the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.
Following his visit to Russia, Dermer flew to Washington on Saturday night for discussions with U.S. officials.
Russia, a significant presence in Syria, could play a critical role in diplomatic efforts to halt hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. Cooperation from Moscow could contribute to a ceasefire agreement that prevents the Iran-backed group from rearming.
Syria, an ally of Iran, serves as a key transit route for weapons from Tehran to Hezbollah, based in Lebanon. Israel claims its recent military offensive has inflicted severe damage on Hezbollah’s leadership, infrastructure, and weaponry. The operation follows nearly a year of frequent rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel, leading to the evacuation of some 60,000 residents near the border.
Separately, Lebanese politicians told the Hezbollah-linked outlet Al-Akhbar that U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein had assured Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Najib Mikati last week that he would visit within ten days.
However, other sources told Al-Akhbar that Lebanon has yet to receive an official date for Hochstein’s arrival, with one source expressing skepticism about his ability to make meaningful progress after limited success in previous visits. The source noted that Israel has signaled it may expand its ground operations in southern Lebanon and that Iran might be preparing for a third direct attack on Israel.
Meanwhile, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has informed the Biden administration that he expects to see headway in the efforts to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, according to Ynet on Saturday.
