Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel will continue its attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon despite calls from allies for a ceasefire. The airstrikes in Lebanon have killed 92 people, including a key Hezbollah leader, with rockets fired into northern Israel. Netanyahu’s goal is to ensure the safe return of Israelis in the north to their homes. The US, France, and other allies have called for a three-week ceasefire to prevent further escalation in the region.
Efforts to persuade Netanyahu to accept the ceasefire have been unsuccessful so far, with concerns that Lebanon could become another Gaza if the conflict persists. Western diplomats doubt Netanyahu will agree to a deal, despite international pressure. Meanwhile, efforts to secure a meeting with Israeli officials by the UK have not been successful.
Hezbollah has stated it will continue fighting Israel as long as the IDF is active in Gaza. Lebanese casualties continue to rise, with airstrikes targeting refugee camps and causing significant civilian casualties. The UK has deployed troops to Cyprus in case of an emergency evacuation from Lebanon.
Domestically, there is opposition to a ceasefire from parties like Otzma Yehudit, who have threatened to withdraw support from the coalition if a ceasefire is agreed upon. The leader of the opposition party also suggests starting with a shorter truce to assess its effectiveness. Israel has also prepared for a possible ground incursion into Lebanon, with reserve brigades called up for drills near the northern border. The situation remains tense as the conflict shows no signs of abating.
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