Qatari newspaper The New Arab reports that Western countries are formulating a framework for a peace deal that would de-escalate the conflict in the Middle East.
The framework would call for a ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, and a pledge from Iran and Lebanon that it will not retaliate for the assassinations of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders.
In addition, the plan would call for humanitarian aid and reconstruction of Gaza.
According to the report, Israeli officials have not dismissed the proposal.
The agreement could prevent Iran and Hezbollah from a revenge strike on Israel that could lead to a full-scale war for Israel on multiple fronts and the risk of pulling allies on both sides into the conflagration.
In addition, the deal would provide for the release of the hostages in Gaza whereas a full-scale war would only prolong their captivity with no end in sight.
