Tue Nov 12 03:03:43 UTC 2024: ## Conflicting Signals on Ceasefire in Lebanon as Israel Continues Strikes
**Jerusalem, November 12, 2024:** Israeli leaders sent mixed signals on Monday regarding a possible ceasefire in Lebanon, where Israeli forces have been engaged in a six-week long operation against Hezbollah. While Foreign Minister Gideon Saar indicated progress towards a ceasefire, Defense Minister Israel Katz ruled out any immediate halt to the strikes.
Saar, who replaced Katz at the foreign ministry this week, told journalists that Israel was working with the US on reaching a ceasefire. “There is certain progress,” he said.
However, Katz, who assumed the defense portfolio, told a military forum that there would be “no ceasefire” and “no break in the strikes against Hezbollah.” He did add that Israel would “certainly consider very seriously” any “good proposal” that allowed them to claim victory.
Israel escalated its air strikes in late September, targeting Hezbollah strongholds across Lebanon and deploying ground troops a week later. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the operation aims to push Hezbollah north of the Litani River and prevent the group from rearming.
Saar reiterated Israel’s objectives on Monday, stating that a ceasefire would only be considered if Hezbollah was removed from the border and prevented from receiving weapons from Syria, the sea, or airports. “The main challenge, eventually, will be to enforce what will be agreed,” he said.
He emphasized that Israel’s priority was to ensure the safe return of displaced citizens and that the IDF operation would continue until the right conditions were met.
Tens of thousands of Israelis were displaced after Hezbollah launched cross-border attacks in support of Hamas last October, triggering the ongoing war in Gaza.
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