Allies push for 21‑day ceasefire to avert Israel-Lebanon war
The United States and its allies have called for a 21-day ceasefire at the Israel-Lebanon border. This is aimed at preventing the outbreak of total war in the region and allowing for the resumption of suspended talks on hostage exchanges between Israel and Hamas.
The proposal, described by one high-ranking US official as a "necessary breakthrough," was made amid deadly clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, which many believe could escalate into a broader conflict.
Hoping to prevent such an outcome, diplomats and leaders gathered in New York for the UN General Assembly have spent the last 48 hours formulating a plan to halt the fighting and enable diplomatic talks.
Israel and Hezbollah have not yet taken a stance. However, US officials stated that both sides are "familiar" with the proposal and have given initial approval.
Allies' joint statement: "Intolerable situation"
"The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8th, 2023 is intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation. This is in nobody’s interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon," stated a joint declaration published late Wednesday evening.
President Joe Biden said the plan has been backed by the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.
"We were able to generate significant support from Europe, as well as the Arab nations," Biden told reporters. "It’s important this war not widen," emphasized the US President.
Hoping for a peaceful resolution of the conflict
The immediate goal of the agreement is to ease tensions and allow for civilian evacuation. Officials also hope that the agreement will facilitate diplomatic talks and lead to the release of the remaining Hamas hostages, who have been held captive for almost a year.
The ceasefire proposal was consulted with both sides before its public presentation. On Wednesday, Blinken and senior White House advisor Amos Hochstein met with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, one of the mediators conveying the details to Hezbollah. The United States has been sending messages to Hezbollah through mediators for several days.
Fighting continues, Israel does not confirm acceptance of the deal
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet responded to the proposal for a 21-day ceasefire at the border with Lebanon, the Israeli Prime Minister's office said on Thursday. It added that the Prime Minister had ordered the continuation of fighting in the Gaza Strip and with Hezbollah.
Netanyahu departed for New York in the morning for a session of the UN General Assembly. In the country, he is being replaced by Foreign Minister Israel Katz, who announced that the fighting with Hezbollah will continue until victory and the complete security of northern Israeli territories is ensured.
Hundreds killed in Lebanon, including children
Meanwhile, the mutual shelling between Israel and Hezbollah continues. In the ongoing intense Israeli bombardments of Lebanon since Monday, over 600 people have been killed, at least 72 on Wednesday. At least 50 of the fatalities are children. Around 500,000 people have fled the attacks, and hospitals are overwhelmed with thousands of injured, according to Reuters.
The Israeli armed forces reported that their air force struck 75 Hezbollah positions overnight. Shortly after noon Eastern Time on Thursday, a new wave of airstrikes was announced.
Israeli commanders have already announced that the military is also being prepared for a ground operation in southern Lebanon, which could lead to further escalation in the region.
