The US and France have jointly called for a 21-day temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon in order to facilitate broader negotiations, as UN Secretary General António Guterres warns of escalating violence. US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron issued a statement emphasizing the need for a settlement along the Israel-Lebanon border to ensure safety for civilians to return home. The proposal has been supported by several countries and international organizations.
In response to the ceasefire proposal, community leaders in northern Israel have rejected the idea, stating that it is not the time for negotiations but for war. Israel has launched airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, resulting in casualties. In addition, rockets have been fired from Gaza towards Israel, with the Israeli military responding.
Israel’s opposition leader, Yair Lapid, has called on the government to accept the ceasefire proposal but suggests a shorter duration to prevent Hezbollah from regrouping. Meanwhile, Israeli security forces have carried out raids in the West Bank, leading to detentions.
With tensions escalating in the region, Lebanon has reported more casualties from Israeli airstrikes, and a planned rally for hostages held in Gaza has been postponed. The US and France are pushing for a diplomatic solution to the crisis, with efforts focused on achieving a temporary ceasefire and broader negotiations.
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