21-Day Pause Sought to Prevent Regional Escalation

A coalition of 12 nations, including the US, UK, and EU, has called for a 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon following escalating hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The group, which also includes Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, seeks to create space for diplomacy to avoid further regional conflict. The coalition’s joint statement, issued after a meeting at the UN General Assembly, described the fighting as “intolerable” and warned of the risk of a broader war.

The ceasefire proposal follows remarks by Israeli military chief Lt Gen Halevi, suggesting air strikes in Lebanon could soon lead to ground operations against Hezbollah. The militant group has been launching attacks in support of Hamas, backed by Iran.

Diplomatic Efforts Intensify

US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron echoed calls for a settlement to safeguard civilians and prevent further escalation. Biden emphasized the need for diplomacy to prevent the conflict from spreading, highlighting significant support from both Europe and Arab nations.

Negotiations are ongoing, though neither Israel nor Lebanon has formally accepted the ceasefire proposal. US officials have stressed that they are engaging with Lebanon’s government, not Hezbollah, leaving the responsibility to Beirut to manage militant factions.

Heavy Casualties and Displacement

The conflict has caused significant loss of life, with more than 600 reported deaths in Lebanon since Monday. The intense Israeli air campaign, aimed at Hezbollah infrastructure, has displaced 200,000 people in Lebanon. Northern Israel has also seen significant displacement, with 70,000 residents forced from their homes due to cross-border fighting.