Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to tone down their attacks in Lebanon in light of the US, France and other allies calling for an immediate 21-day ceasefire, a report in......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
The Times of Israel claimed, citing Channel 12.
While Netanyahu’s voter base is steadfastly against the move of relenting against Hezbollah, the Israeli PM appears to be conflicted.
Another Channel 12report, quoting officials at Netanyahu’s office stated that there is “greenlight for ceasefire” with the militant outfit.
US, France and other allies demanded that Israel and Hezbollah cease hostilities immediately while also urging for a truce in Gaza.
“The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8th, 2023, is intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation,” read the statement.
“This is in nobody’s interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon,” continued the statement. “It is time to conclude a diplomatic settlement that enables civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes in safety.”
US President Joe Biden has already warned that the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah threatens to become an “all-out war” that could have serious spillover effect.
“An all-out war is possible, but I think there’s also the opportunity – we’re still in play to have a settlement that can fundamentally change the whole region,” Biden said in a TV interview.
The hostilities between the two sides has increased after Israel allegedly planted explosives in pagers used by Hezbollah fighters and detonated them remotely. The Lebanese health ministry said Israeli strikes killed at least 558 people on Monday (Sep 23) — the deadliest day of violence in the country since its 1975-90 civil war.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah on Wednesday claimed it had fired a ballistic missile targeting Israeli spy agency Mossad’s headquarters near Tel Aviv.
It is the first time the group has claimed a ballistic missile strike since its nearly year-long battle with Israel began after Hamas carried out its October 7 attack.