Israel has rejected calls from its allies for a 21-day ceasefire with Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, vowing to continue its military campaign “until victory.” The refusal came just ahead of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s anticipated address at the UN General Assembly on Friday.
The proposed ceasefire, pushed by the United States, France, and other allies, was introduced following discussions between U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron at the UN. However, Netanyahu rejected the offer, instructing the Israeli military to proceed with full force against Hezbollah strongholds in Lebanon.
Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah-controlled areas have resulted in the deaths of hundreds, with Hezbollah retaliating through rocket barrages. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s health ministry reported that over 700 people have been killed in Israeli strikes since Monday, with a total death toll exceeding 1,500 since the conflict escalated last October.
Diplomatic efforts to mediate the conflict, including the proposal of a ceasefire to ease tensions for civilians on both sides, have so far failed. In response to Israel’s rejection of the ceasefire, French President Macron expressed disappointment, urging Netanyahu to reconsider and warning of the consequences of further escalation in the region.
Despite the mounting humanitarian toll, Israel has secured an $8.7 billion aid package from the United States to bolster its ongoing military efforts.
