Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a US-brokered proposal for a ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon, which he plans to present to his government for approval. In a televised address, Netanyahu confirmed the truce would be contingent on conditions in Lebanon, cautioning against violations by Hezbollah.
“If Hezbollah violates the agreement and attempts to rearm, we will strike,” Netanyahu warned. He emphasized Israel’s military readiness, stating, “In full coordination with the United States, we are maintaining full military freedom of action.”
Despite the ceasefire announcement, tensions remain high. Israeli forces launched airstrikes on central Beirut, and the Israeli military reported 15 projectiles entering its airspace from Lebanon.
The conflict, which intensified after nearly a year of border skirmishes, was ignited by Hezbollah’s declaration of support for Hamas following its October 7, 2023, assault on Israel. This war has claimed at least 3,823 lives in Lebanon and left 129 dead in Israel, including soldiers and civilians.
Netanyahu noted that the ceasefire would enable Israel to concentrate on countering Iran and intensify its campaign against Hamas in Gaza. “With Hezbollah out of the picture, Hamas is left on its own,” he remarked, pledging increased pressure on Hamas to secure the release of hostages taken during last year’s attack.
Out of the 251 hostages taken by Hamas, 97 remain in captivity, with 34 declared dead by the Israeli military.
