Israel will hold on Tuesday a cabinet meeting to discuss approval of a ceasefire to temporarily end hostilities with the Lebanese militia Hezbollah.
BBC reported that the proposed truce would be for an initial period of 60 days and include the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon, citing media reports.
In return, Hezbollah would end its presence south of the Litani River, about 30km (18 miles) north of the international border, and be replaced by Lebanese Army troops.
Even as diplomats suggested on Monday that a deal was close, fierce fighting continued, with Lebanese authorities reporting at least 31 killed in Israeli air strikes and Hezbollah firing barrages of rockets at Israel.
Ministers are expected to vote on the deal during the meeting on Tuesday, according to Haaretz. Reuters news agency cited a senior Israeli official as saying the meeting was intended to approve the agreement's text.
The news agency also reported four senior Lebanese sources as saying the US and France - a long-term ally of Lebanon - were expected to announce a ceasefire imminently.
According to Israel's Channel 12, the possible deal includes:
- A mutual ceasefire
- An IDF presence in Lebanon for up to 60 days
- The Lebanese Army replacing the IDF as it withdraws
- No Israeli-occupied buffer zone in southern Lebanon
- The US heading the five-country committee set up to monitor implementation of the ceasefire
- The Lebanese government overseeing arms purchases and production in the country
In addition, the US would issue a letter recognising Israel's right to attack Lebanon if Hezbollah is perceived to be in violation of the agreement.
Bd-Pratidin English/ Afsar Munna
