Topline
The U.S., France and several key allies issued a statement late Wednesday calling for an immediate 21-day cease-fire along the Israel-Lebanon border, amid fears that the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah could spiral into an all-out regional war.
Smoke rises from Israeli airstrikes in the southern village of Kfar Rouman, seen from Marjayoun, … [+]
Key Facts
The cease-fire call was made after discussions at the United Nations on Wednesday it has been signed by the U.S., Australia, Canada, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Qatar.
The statement notes that the situation between Israel and Lebanon since last October is “intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation” and calls for a “diplomatic settlement” that allows civilians on both sides of the border to return home safely.
The statement also expresses hope that a pause in fighting would open a path towards a potential cease-fire in Gaza as well.
While the Israeli government has not officially commented on the proposal, the country’s finance minister and far-right leader Bezalel Smotrich rejected on Thursday it saying the “enemy must not be given time to recover and reorganize in order to continue the war after 21 days.”
Opposition leader Yair Lapid called on the Israeli government to accept the proposal but only for 7 days to prevent Hezbollah from reorganizing—but added that the country should not accept any proposal that “does not include removing Hezbollah from our northern border.”
Lebanese Prime Minister welcomed the cease-fire call, telling Reuters that its success will ride on Israel’s commitment to enforce international resolutions.
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Crucial Quote
Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, also backed the cease-fire call, saying: “Welcome and applaud the call for an immediate 21-day ceasefire to allow the space for diplomacy to succeed. Counting on the unequivocal support of all to seize this opportunity.”
Who Will Sign The Cease-Fire?
U.S. officials told the Associated Press that the cease-fire agreement will be signed between the Israeli and Lebanese government and the Iran-backed Hezbollah will not be a signatory. The officials said they believe the proposal will be welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office and the Lebanese government will work Hezbollah to ensure their compliance.
Key Background
The international push for a ceasefire comes after Israel began an large-scale aerial bombardment campaign earlier this week targeting what it said were Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon. Shortly after starting its campaign on Monday, Israel warned civilians civilians living in Lebanese villages “located in and next to buildings and areas used by Hezbollah for military purposes…to immediately move out of harm’s way for their own safety.” So far the strikes have resulted hundreds of deaths and forced tens of thousands of civilians to flee towards Beirut. Israel’s leaders including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have said the strikes are meant to destroy Hezbollah’s military capabilities and allow civilians living in border towns and cities in northern Israel safely return to their homes. On Wednesday, Israeli signaled it was preparing for a possible ground invasion into Lebanon. International authorities including the U.S. government have cautioned Israel against escalating the conflict, warning the situation could devolve into a full blown regional war.
Big Number
More than 600. The total death toll from Israel’s extensive airstrikes on southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese authorities.
What To Watch For
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to speak at the U.N. General Assembly on Friday.
Further Reading
Israel Says It Intercepted Missile Fired At Tel Aviv—Hezbollah Says It Targeted Mossad Headquarters (Forbes)
Israeli Airstrikes Kill More Than 500 In Lebanon, Local Authorities Say (Forbes)
