Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue military strikes on Hezbollah with “full force” until the militant group halts its rocket attacks, dampening prospects for a ceasefire that U.S. and European officials have proposed. Netanyahu made the statement as he arrived in New York for the U.N. General Assembly, where diplomatic efforts to prevent a broader conflict are expected to intensify.
The ongoing violence escalated as Israel launched a new offensive in Beirut, claiming to have eliminated a senior Hezbollah leader. In retaliation, Hezbollah fired a barrage of rockets into Israel, forcing mass evacuations along the Israeli-Lebanese border.
Diplomatic sources suggest the U.S. and European countries are pushing for a 21-day pause in hostilities to facilitate peace talks and prevent a full-scale war. However, Netanyahu’s firm stance signals Israel’s unwillingness to halt military operations while Hezbollah continues its attacks.
The conflict has already caused widespread destruction and casualties, with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah condemning recent Israeli strikes as crossing a “red line.” Additionally, unusual attacks involving exploding walkie-talkies and pagers in Lebanon have injured over 300 people, further intensifying tensions in the region.
As both sides exchange fire, the situation remains volatile, and the likelihood of an immediate ceasefire appears slim. Diplomatic efforts will likely play a key role in shaping the next phase of the conflict.