Shafaq News/ Israel is progressing toward a ceasefire with Hezbollah, though some issues remain unresolved, Israeli officials said Monday, as heavy airstrikes targeted Lebanon amid cautious optimism from Lebanese leaders.

A senior US official told Axios that both sides have agreed on the terms of a truce, with Israel's security cabinet expected to approve the deal Tuesday.

Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon confirmed progress, stating, “We haven’t finalized it yet, but we are moving forward.” However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office declined to comment.

Over the weekend, Israeli airstrikes intensified, killing at least 29 people in central Beirut and leveling parts of Dahye, Hezbollah's stronghold in the southern suburbs. Hezbollah retaliated with its largest rocket barrage yet, launching 250 missiles on Sunday.

Talks mediated by US envoy Amos Hochstein gained traction last week, with significant progress reported after meetings in Beirut, Tel Aviv, and Washington.

In Beirut, Deputy Parliament Speaker Elias Bou Saab said a decisive moment was near, describing the situation as “slightly tilted” toward an agreement. However, he expressed skepticism, citing distrust in Netanyahu.

A senior Lebanese official, speaking anonymously to Reuters, indicated that US mediators described a “positive atmosphere,” with no new demands from Israel. The official suggested a ceasefire could be finalized this week.

The conflict erupted in September, escalating into full-scale war with Israel targeting Hezbollah’s infrastructure and leadership as well as civilians.

According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, Israel killed 3754 and injured 15626 since Ocotcer 8, 2023. Most of them since September 2024.

Efforts are centered on reinstating UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war. The resolution mandates Hezbollah’s withdrawal 30 kilometers from the Israeli border and the deployment of the Lebanese army to the area.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar emphasized that any deal must ensure Hezbollah remains north of the Litani River and prevent the group from rearming across Lebanon.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged continued military action until “absolute victory.”

Hezbollah’s deputy leader Sheikh Naim Qassem indicated last week that the group had reviewed the US proposal and that the next steps were up to Israel.