Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the military to intensify operations against Hezbollah, disregarding calls from the United States and allied nations for a ceasefire. The latest round of Israeli airstrikes has resulted in a reported 92 fatalities in Lebanon, with the death toll climbing significantly since the attacks escalated earlier this week.
Hezbollah has confirmed that one of its senior figures, Mohammad Surur, was killed in an airstrike on an apartment building in southern Beirut. Heightened tensions grow between Israel and Hezbollah in light of the increasingly aggressive Israeli bombings over recent days.
In response to the escalating conflict, a coalition of twelve nations, including the US, UK, and EU, has proposed a three-week ceasefire aimed at de-escalating the situation. Initial statements from Israeli officials hinted at a willingness to discuss the proposal; however, the suggestion faced swift rejection from political circles in Israel.
While attending the UN General Assembly in New York, Netanyahu reiterated that military operations in Lebanon would continue until Israel achieves its objectives, particularly ensuring the safe return of residents from the north. The White House indicated that the ceasefire proposal had been discussed with Israeli authorities, even as Netanyahu insisted on maintaining military pressure.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the need for an “immediate ceasefire” to facilitate diplomatic efforts in resolving the conflict, warning that the situation could spiral into a war that could be uncontrollable.
Since the onset of hostilities last year, approximately 70,000 Israelis have been displaced in the northern regions. In Lebanon, the UN reports that nearly 90,000 people have fled their homes just since Monday, compounding the 110,000 individuals already displaced.
The Israeli military has conducted strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, as well as infrastructure along the Lebanese-Syrian border, aiming to disrupt arms supply routes to Hezbollah. In response, Hezbollah has launched rockets toward northern Israeli settlements, with the Israeli army confirming interceptions of threats, including missiles fired from Yemen.
In light of the conflict, Israeli military officials have indicated possible ground operations in Lebanon, with preparations underway. Additionally, Qatar has voiced concerns over the humanitarian impact of the bombings, likening the situation in Lebanon to the atrocities witnessed in Gaza.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, after discussions with UK and Australian counterparts, warned of the looming threat of all-out war but affirmed that diplomatic avenues remain open. He reiterated that a swift resolution through diplomacy would best serve the interests of affected citizens in northern Israel.
On Thursday, Israel’s defense ministry announced securing an $8.7 billion US aid package to bolster military efforts. This package is reported to include significant funds for wartime procurement and advanced air defense systems, such as the Iron Dome.
