Israel on Thursday told its troops to prepare for a “possible entry” into Lebanon to “continue degrading Hezbollah,” after the Iran-backed organisation targeted Tel Aviv for the first time.
However, a Pentagon spokesperson said an that an Israeli ground incursion did not appear “imminent.”
Meanwhile, Lebanon’s prime minister Najib Mikati told the UN Security Council that Israel was violating its sovereignty and called for an immediate ceasefire.
Further, France introduced a proposal for a 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon during UN diplomatic efforts with the United States. The announcement followed discussions at the United Nations between Joe Biden and Emmanuel Macron, and was presented during an emergency Security Council session.
Here are top developments in the story:
US, France draft plan to pause Israel-Hezbollah fighting after Biden warns of ‘all-out-war’
US President Joe Biden warned that the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah risks escalating into an “all-out war.”
Meanwhile, France and the US are working on a 21-day ceasefire plan to push for a temporary ceasefire to ease the rising tensions, which have resulted in over 600 fatalities in Lebanon in recent days.
“We are counting on both parties to accept it without delay,” French foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot told the UN Security Council.
An Israeli official revealed that PM Netanyahu has approved the pursuit of a potential deal, contingent upon the return of Israeli civilians to their homes.
A Lebanese official described the ongoing efforts as “very serious” and, when asked about the potential for a ceasefire to begin Thursday, indicated it was “not wishful thinking.” He suggested that, if an agreement is reached, it would likely initiate with a four-week ceasefire.
Israel Ready To Invade Lebanon? Nearly 8000 IDF Troops Rushed; ‘Big Message’ For Hezbollah
Israeli alerts troops for Lebanon incursion
After Hezbollah launched missile attacks at Tel Aviv, Israel alerted its troops for a “possible” entry into Lebanon to continue its offensive against Hezbollah.
“We are attacking all day, both to prepare the ground for the possibility of your entry, but also to continue striking Hezbollah,” Israeli army chief Herzi Halevi said.
It remained unclear whether Halevi was alluding to a ground operation, airstrikes, or another form of retaliation against Hezbollah.
Recently, the Israeli military had said that it had no immediate plans for a ground invasion, but Halevi’s remarks were the strongest indication yet that troops could be deployed.
Hezbollah targets Tel Aviv for first time
The Israeli military on Wednesday shot down a Hezbollah missile targeting Tel Aviv, marking the first instance of the Iranian-backed militia directly aiming at the city.
The counter strikes from Israel resulted in at least 51 fatalities and 223 injuries, according to Lebanese health minister Firass Abiad.
Since Hezbollah began launching rockets and drones at Israel on October 8 in support of Hamas’ earlier attack, approximately 60,000 Israelis have evacuated their homes. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s foreign ministry reported that around 500,000 Lebanese have been displaced due to heavy airstrikes by Israeli jets over the past week.