The US and France have submitted a proposal for a 21-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah to facilitate broader negotiations aimed at preventing a wider war.
In a joint statement, US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron said: ‘It is time for a resolution of the Israel-Lebanon border that ensures security and protection, allowing citizens to return to their homes. The exchange of fire since October 7, especially in the past two weeks, poses a serious risk of escalating into a much larger conflict and endangering civilians.’
The two leaders urged Israel and Lebanon to support the proposal, supported by the European Union, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.
The war in Gaza continues, with today’s Israeli attacks killing at least 16 Palestinians.
A senior U.S. government official said on Wednesday evening that both Israel and Lebanon, which is considered to represent Hezbollah in the negotiations, are expected to respond to the call “within the next few hours.” The ceasefire proposal does not apply to the conflict in Gaza.
Meanwhile, Israel is preparing for a possible ground invasion of Lebanon and has concentrated troops in the north, near the border between the two countries, according to Israeli military leaders.
Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon continue, with over 620 people killed so far.
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