From escalation to de-escalation? Netanyahu agrees to American-brokered truce in north

Prime Minister Netanyahu updated his ministers today (Wednesday) that he intends to instruct Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer to agree to a proposed American truce in the north, with the aim of negotiating with Hezbollah over the border while not "under fire," according to Israel Hayom.

Sources in Israel are not optimistic about the potential success of such an agreement, but believe that it will grant Israel further legitimacy if Hezbollah refuses the agreement.

Axios reports a major effort by the United States to negotiate a truce in the north and restart negotiations with Hamas in Gaza.

According to Axios, the aim of such a deal to achieve a pause that will give space for negotiations on a broader diplomatic deal to prevent a wider war, allow displaced civilians to return to their homes on both sides of the border, and provide renewed momentum for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal.