Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed media reports suggesting an imminent ceasefire in Lebanon as 'incorrect.' In a statement issued on Thursday, Netanyahu clarified that he has instructed the Israeli military to continue fighting 'with full force,' refuting claims of a potential ceasefire proposal made by the United States and France.
The statement from Netanyahu's office emphasized that the news about a ceasefire was inaccurate and that the prime minister had not responded to the American-French proposal. Contrary to reports indicating a directive to moderate the fighting in the north, Netanyahu affirmed his instructions for the Israel Defense Forces to maintain their operations at full capacity, in line with the presented plans.
Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz echoed Netanyahu's stance, declaring that 'there will be no ceasefire in the north' and emphasizing Israel's commitment to combat Hezbollah 'with all our might' until victory is achieved and residents in the affected areas can safely return to their homes.
Context and Background
Netanyahu's statement followed criticism from right-wing Israeli ministers regarding reports of the US advocating for a weeks-long ceasefire in Lebanon. An Israeli official previously indicated that discussions surrounding a potential temporary ceasefire with Hezbollah were a key factor driving Netanyahu's visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly.
