Netanyahu rejects ceasefire without buffer zone on Lebanon border.
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed the idea of a ceasefire in Lebanon, stating any arrangement must establish a security zone along the Israel border to stop Hezbollah from rearming.
In a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, Netanyahu maintained his opposition to a unilateral truce that does not change the situation in Lebanon.
He made clear Israel will not accept any solution lacking provisions for a buffer area where Hezbollah fighters are absent, and to curb the group’s replenishment of weapons.
The remarks come as the US criticizes Israeli strikes on Beirut and Gaza, demanding more aid reaches Palestinians. It has given Israel 30 days to boost Gaza access or risk cuts to military aid.
Hezbollah has threatened to widen missile barrages across Israel after the country targeted all of Lebanon. Over 1,300 lives have been lost in Lebanon from Israeli bombardments since September.
The cross-border violence intensified last week when Hezbollah launched missiles at northern Israel following strikes in Lebanon and Gaza, amid tensions also rising over Iran’s missile launches at Israel.
With the conflict spreading and civilian casualties mounting on both sides, global calls are mounting for de-escalation through a durable ceasefire arrangement.
