As tensions escalate between Israel and Hezbollah, a 21-day ceasefire proposal has been put forward by France and the United States to facilitate negotiations and halt the violence.
As tensions escalate between Israel and Hezbollah, a 21-day ceasefire proposal has been put forward by France and the United States to facilitate negotiations and halt the violence. With Israeli strikes intensifying and the death toll rising, both regional and international leaders are urging for de-escalation. The situation in Lebanon has reached a critical point, prompting widespread concern over potential humanitarian crises and the possibility of a larger conflict in the region.
- Ceasefire Proposal: France and the United States have proposed a 21-day ceasefire to facilitate negotiations as Israeli strikes on Hezbollah continue to escalate the conflict, resulting in a rising death toll.
- Israeli Military Movements: Israeli army chief Herzi Halevi indicated preparations for a potential ground invasion of Lebanon, with two reserve brigades being mobilised and positioned near the border.
- Lebanese Prime Minister’s Statement: Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed cautious optimism about the ceasefire, emphasizing the necessity for Israel to adhere to international resolutions for any truce to be effective.
- French Foreign Minister’s Remarks: Jean-Noel Barrot called for urgent engagement in de-escalation efforts during a UN Security Council meeting, highlighting the need for a temporary ceasefire to enable negotiations.
- UN Chief’s Warning: Antonio Guterres warned that “hell is breaking loose” in Lebanon, urging the Security Council to take immediate action to halt the escalating violence along the UN-patrolled border with Israel.
- Israeli Response: Israel’s UN envoy Danny Danon acknowledged the importance of diplomacy while reaffirming Israel’s commitment to degrading Hezbollah’s military capabilities.
- Iran’s Position: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi cautioned that Tehran might retaliate against Israeli actions, warning of catastrophic regional consequences if the situation is not controlled.
- Indian Embassy Advisory: The Indian Embassy in Beirut has advised nationals to leave Lebanon immediately due to the escalating conflict and to exercise extreme caution if remaining.
- Recent Violence Overview: Since mid-September, hostilities have intensified, with significant casualties on both sides. Israeli strikes have reportedly killed over 560 Lebanese and injured nearly 2,000, while more than 90,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon.
- Historical Context: Concerns grow that a new war could surpass the devastation of the 2006 conflict, which resulted in significant casualties and widespread destruction in both Lebanon and Israel.