Mon Jul 07 18:37:25 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the situation, drawing from the provided text:

**Hezbollah Defiant as US Seeks Disarmament Amid Continued Israeli Strikes**

**Beirut, Lebanon** – Tensions remain high in Lebanon as Hezbollah rejects US calls to disarm within four months, citing ongoing Israeli aggression. The US proposal, delivered by envoy Thomas Barrack, offered a halt to Israeli air strikes and withdrawal from occupied positions in southern Lebanon in exchange for Hezbollah’s full disarmament.

Barrack, an advisor to President Trump, expressed satisfaction with the Lebanese government’s response to the proposal, calling it “spectacular.” While details of the government’s seven-page reply remain undisclosed, Barrack stated that both Lebanon and Israel are seeking a path toward de-escalation.

However, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem declared the group will not lay down its arms while Israel continues its attacks. “We cannot be asked to soften our stance or lay down arms while [Israeli] aggression continues,” Qassem stated.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated after October 2023, spiraling into full-scale conflict by September of the following year, resulting in thousands of deaths and widespread displacement. Despite a ceasefire agreement in November of the prior year, Israel continues to strike Lebanon, claiming its operations are aimed at preventing Hezbollah from rearming. Lebanese officials report that hundreds have been killed or wounded in Israeli attacks since the ceasefire.

Just hours before Barrack’s arrival, Israel launched new air strikes and a ground invasion, actions seen by Lebanese officials as an attempt to pressure Hezbollah ahead of diplomatic discussions. Recent reports detail multiple Israeli drone strikes targeting vehicles and homes in southern Lebanon, resulting in casualties.

While the Lebanese government, installed earlier this year, has pledged to strengthen the state and rein in Hezbollah’s power, the path to peace remains uncertain as both sides trade accusations and continue military actions. The situation is further complicated by Hezbollah’s need for guarantees that it can continue operating as a political force within Lebanon.

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