The United States, France, and several Arab and European countries have called for an immediate 21-day ceasefire in the Israel-Lebanon conflict. The ceasefire would apply to the Blue Line, the demarcation line between the two countries, allowing for diplomatic negotiations to resolve the conflict. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to stop the killing and destruction and step back from the brink of all-out war.
Various countries, including Qatar, Australia, Canada, the EU, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, have supported the ceasefire call. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has called on the government to accept the proposal for a seven-day ceasefire, with the condition of removing Hezbollah from the northern border.
Despite the international efforts, there is skepticism in Lebanon about the US’s ability to rein in Israel due to the significant military support the US provides to Israel. Hezbollah has indicated that it will not agree to a ceasefire as long as there is conflict in Gaza.
US officials believe that Israel will welcome the ceasefire proposal, and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has urged both parties to accept it without delay to avoid war. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has also expressed support for the ceasefire plan.
While the international community is pushing for a ceasefire, there is little incentive for Israel and Hezbollah to agree. Israel has continued air strikes in Lebanon, resulting in casualties and displacement of thousands. The situation remains tense, with conflicting motivations from the parties involved.
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