Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Tuesday his support for a U.S.-mediated ceasefire proposal with Lebanon’s Hezbollah as Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon intensified, claiming at least 23 lives.
The military issued widespread evacuation notices, signaling potential escalations before the agreement takes effect. For the first time during the conflict, Israeli troops reached the Litani River, a key element of the proposed deal.
Netanyahu stated he would present the ceasefire proposal to his cabinet, with a vote expected later in the day. The ceasefire terms, which remain undisclosed, would not impact Israel’s ongoing operations against Hamas in Gaza.
The agreement proposes a two-month halt to hostilities, requiring Hezbollah to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon while Israeli troops retreat to their borders. Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers would oversee compliance under international monitoring.
The intensified strikes in Beirut targeted residential areas, killing civilians and prompting widespread evacuations. Hezbollah continued its rocket attacks, prompting sirens in northern Israel.
Israeli officials emphasized their right to respond if Hezbollah violates the deal, underscoring challenges in implementation. European Union diplomats urged all parties to adhere to the agreement, warning of potential collapse in Lebanon if fighting persists.
(Source: Agency)
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