BEIRUT. In defiance of international calls, including those from its key ally the United States, Israel has rejected a proposed ceasefire with Hezbollah as fighting continues to escalate. Israeli warplanes bombarded Lebanon on Thursday, targeting southern suburbs of Beirut and intensifying pressure on the Iran-backed group, Hezbollah.
Amid the ongoing strikes, the Israeli army also conducted a large-scale exercise near the Lebanese border, simulating a ground invasion. The military’s maneuvers are part of Israel’s broader strategy to secure its northern border and facilitate the return of thousands of Israeli citizens displaced by the conflict.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, firmly stated, “There will be no ceasefire in the north. We will continue to fight against the Hezbollah terrorist organization with all our strength until victory and the safe return of the residents of the north to their homes,” Katz said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The military confirmed its airstrikes in the southern suburbs of Beirut, an area known as a Hezbollah stronghold. A senior Hezbollah leader was reportedly the target of one of these strikes, although their fate remains unknown. Lebanese media broadcast images of buildings damaged by the attack, reflecting the growing danger to civilian areas.
Global Reactions to Israel’s Rejection
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati had expressed optimism about a potential ceasefire, but hopes were dashed by Israel’s continued offensive. Mikati told Reuters, “Hopefully, yes,” when asked about the prospects of halting the conflict.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken voiced concern over Israel’s decision, stating, “The world is speaking clearly for virtually all of the key countries in Europe and in the region on the need for the ceasefire,” during an interview with MSNBC. Blinken is expected to meet with Israeli officials in New York for further discussions.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has yet to give an official response to the ceasefire proposal, as he prepares to address the United Nations. However, hardliners within his government have urged continued military action until Hezbollah surrenders.
Escalating Casualties and Regional Impact
Lebanon has suffered significant losses since Israel’s bombardment began, with more than 600 fatalities reported since Monday. The Lebanese health ministry revealed that at least 26 people were killed in strikes overnight, many of them Syrian refugees in the Bekaa Valley town of Younine.
Hezbollah has retaliated with rocket fire into northern Israel, including its first attack on Tel Aviv, though Israel’s defense systems have minimized the damage. The U.S. and France, along with other international allies, have called for a 21-day ceasefire to address the growing humanitarian crisis.
Israel’s strikes have also affected Lebanese civilians, many of whom have sought refuge in makeshift shelters. “I just want to know if there will be a little electricity at night so I can go buy a fan,” one woman in a Beirut school shelter said. Aid organizations are working to provide essentials like clothing, food, and medication for those who fled their homes.
The conflict has raised concerns among neighboring countries, with Turkey reportedly preparing for a potential evacuation of its citizens from Lebanon due to the ongoing hostilities.
As of now, the fighting shows no signs of abating, as Israel intensifies its airstrikes on Hezbollah targets and continues to secure its northern territories. The conflict has become one of the deadliest in Lebanon since the 2006 war, with fears of a broader regional conflict spreading as tensions rise.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
