Lebanon's caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati has raised concerns over Israel's recent actions, suggesting that they are hindering efforts to achieve a ceasefire. Mikati reportedly made these remarks during a meeting with UN peacekeepers in Beirut, highlighting Israel's strikes on Beirut and military evacuation orders issued for Lebanese cities as troubling signs.
According to Mikati, Israel's aggressive actions, including threats to evacuate entire cities and villages, as well as targeting the southern suburbs of Beirut, indicate a rejection of ceasefire efforts. He specifically referenced UN Resolution 1701, which brought an end to the 2006 conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.
Recent Israeli airstrikes in south Beirut and evacuation orders in Baalbek have escalated tensions in the region. Israel has stated that its operations are aimed at countering Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Interestingly, Mikati's current stance contrasts with his earlier expressions of optimism regarding a potential ceasefire in Lebanon before the upcoming US presidential election on November 5.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the need for Israel to have the capability to enforce any ceasefire agreement in Lebanon to address security threats emanating from the country.
