27-9-2024 (BEIRUT) Israel has steadfastly rejected international pleas for a ceasefire with Hezbollah, defying even its staunchest ally, the United States, as it continues its military campaign in Lebanon. The ongoing strikes have resulted in hundreds of casualties and stoked fears of a wider regional conflagration.
Despite mounting global pressure, including a proposed 21-day truce put forward by the US and France, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his country’s commitment to its military objectives. Speaking in New York ahead of his address to the UN General Assembly, Netanyahu stated, “We will not stop until we achieve all our goals, first and foremost returning the residents of the north safely to their homes.”
The Israeli military’s resolve was further emphasised by Air Force Commander Major General Tomer Bar, who revealed preparations for a potential ground operation in Lebanon. “We are preparing shoulder to shoulder with Northern Command for a ground manoeuvre. Prepared, if activated,” Bar told soldiers in a video distributed by the Israeli military.
The latest Israeli airstrike on the outskirts of Beirut claimed two lives and injured 15 others, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. Among the casualties was Mohammad Surur, a senior Hezbollah commander, marking another blow to the militant group’s leadership.
And in Lebanon, continued Israeli air strikes.
The Israeli army launched air raids on Beirut’s suburb of Dahiyeh.
At least 650 people have been killed in Lebanon over the last week. pic.twitter.com/kAV4YFM07r
— Hamdah Salhut (@hamdahsalhut) September 26, 2024
Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib made an impassioned plea to the UN, warning that the crisis threatens Lebanon’s very existence. “Lebanon is currently enduring a crisis which is threatening its very existence,” Bou Habib stated at a UN General Assembly meeting.
The United States, while acknowledging Israel’s position, continues to push for a diplomatic solution. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, speaking in London, emphasised that despite the escalation, “a diplomatic solution is still viable.”
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Netanyahu’s rejection of the ceasefire proposal might not be final. Macron warned that such a refusal could lead to further regional escalation.
As the conflict intensifies, the humanitarian situation in Lebanon deteriorates. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced, with many seeking refuge in schools and relying on aid organisations for basic necessities.
The ongoing crisis has far-reaching implications, with Yemen’s Houthi militants, allies of Hezbollah and Hamas, launching missiles at Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
