Mon Nov 25 20:37:15 UTC 2024: ## Despite Ceasefire Hopes, Intense Israeli Air Strikes Rock Lebanon as Negotiations Continue

**BEIRUT/JERUSALEM** – Despite ongoing negotiations and claims of imminent progress, intense Israeli air strikes pounded Lebanon on Monday, killing at least 12 and casting doubt on the prospects for a swift ceasefire in the two-month-old conflict with Hezbollah. The attacks, described as more powerful and frequent than previous ones, targeted residential and commercial areas in Beirut and Tyre, further escalating the humanitarian crisis. The death toll in Lebanon from Israeli attacks since October now stands at over 3,700, with over a million displaced.

While Israeli Ambassador to the US Mike Herzog stated that a ceasefire agreement could be reached “within days,” he acknowledged that several points remain unresolved and require government approval. This statement followed claims by Lebanese Deputy Parliament Speaker Elias Bou Saab that no major obstacles to a US-proposed ceasefire remained, contingent on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approval. The proposal involves an Israeli withdrawal from south Lebanon and the deployment of Lebanese soldiers in the border region within 60 days. A five-country committee, chaired by the US and including France, is reportedly agreed upon to monitor compliance.

However, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby cautioned that negotiations are far from complete, warning of potential last-minute setbacks. French officials similarly reported “significant progress” but urged both sides to capitalize on the opportunity. This cautious optimism is countered by staunch opposition from Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who labeled a potential deal a “big mistake.”

The escalating violence comes after a weekend of intense fighting, including a devastating Israeli attack in central Beirut that killed at least 29 and a major Hezbollah rocket barrage into Israel. While the hope for a ceasefire persists amongst the Lebanese population, the ongoing intense bombardment casts a significant shadow on the fragile diplomatic efforts. The conflict has already claimed the lives of thousands and displaced millions, leaving a trail of devastation across both countries.

Read More