Cairo: Hani Kamal El-Din
Reports indicate that the United States has reached out to the Lebanese Armed Forces, urging them to influence the government’s decision to accept an unconditional ceasefire in light of escalating tensions with Israel. According to Sky News Arabia, this move is part of the US efforts to mitigate the rising conflict between the two sides.
Sources confirmed that the US communicated with the Lebanese military leadership, emphasizing the necessity of convincing the government to agree to the ceasefire, which is deemed essential to prevent further escalation of security issues in the region.
Meanwhile, the Lebanese army previously denied information suggesting that it was withdrawing from the border areas with Israel, reflecting a state of ongoing military tension in the region.
On the night of October 1, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the initiation of limited ground operations in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah, marking a clear military escalation. The Israeli army stated that the operations specifically target villages that pose an immediate threat to nearby Israeli towns along the border.
The ground operation was preceded by extensive airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions within Lebanese territory. According to The New York Times, the ground operations are being conducted by small commando groups, although larger forces, which have recently been concentrated at the border, are prepared for deployment into Lebanon if necessary.
Current developments indicate a continuing escalation in tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, raising concerns about the potential for a broader conflict that could affect regional security. The international community has expressed alarm over this escalation, with many countries urging restraint and the avoidance of further military confrontation.
