Top Biden administration officials are heading back to the Middle East to push a ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas. The proposal announced by President Biden last week comes in three phases, including a withdrawal of Israeli forces from all populated areas of Gaza. U.S. officials say they're now waiting on Hamas to respond. Tensions are ramping up along the Israel-Lebanon border, threatening to expand the war into a regional conflict. Israeli officials say at least 10 people were injured today because of an attack from the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.
In the latest attack, Hezbollah appears to have struck the Israeli town of Horfesh in northern Israel. At least 10 people were injured, according to the Israeli military. The attack was carried out by an explosive drone. This incident is part of a simmering conflict between Israel and Hezbollah that has seen an uptick in attacks over the past week, including rocket and drone strikes in both directions.
Recent rocket fire from Hezbollah also sparked wildfires in northern Israel, displacing around 60,000 civilians from their homes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the affected areas, vowing to restore security through diplomacy or military action. The situation in northern Israel remains unsettled, with calls for stability and the return of displaced residents.
CIA Director Bill Burns is in Doha, Qatar, meeting with Qatari officials who have been in contact with Hamas regarding the ceasefire proposal. The United States is leading an international effort to pressure Hamas into accepting the deal. While Israel has made concessions, including aligning closer to Hamas's position, a permanent ceasefire commitment remains a sticking point. The ball is now in Hamas's court to respond to the proposal.
