Israel Launches 'Large Scale' Attack On Hezbollah

Israeli warplanes launched attacks on central Beirut and its southern suburbs, creating smoke clouds over the city. This occurred as Israel's leadership prepared to vote on a US-brokered ceasefire with Hezbollah. The Israeli military warned residents of 20 buildings in Beirut's suburbs to evacuate before further strikes, indicating a last-minute effort to weaken Hezbollah before any ceasefire could take effect.

Despite ongoing bombardments, there is cautious optimism about a ceasefire. The proposal, backed by the US and France, suggests a two-month halt in fighting. It requires Hezbollah to withdraw from southern Lebanon while Israeli troops return to their border. Thousands of Lebanese troops and UN peacekeepers would then be deployed in the south.

Ceasefire Proposal Details

The ceasefire plan involves an international panel led by the US to monitor compliance. However, implementation remains uncertain as Israel demands the right to act if Hezbollah breaches its obligations. Lebanese officials have opposed including this condition in the proposal. Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, emphasized that military action would follow if UN peacekeepers fail to enforce the deal effectively.

On Tuesday, Israeli jets targeted at least six buildings in Beirut's southern suburbs. One strike was near Lebanon's only airport, which remains operational despite its proximity to Hezbollah strongholds. The strikes are part of Israel's efforts to dismantle Hezbollah's military capabilities.

International Reactions

The European Union's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, stated that Israel's security concerns were addressed in the ceasefire deal. "There is no excuse for not implementing a ceasefire," Borrell said during a Group of Seven meeting in Italy. He warned that Lebanon risks collapse without a ceasefire and noted that France would participate in the implementation committee at Lebanon's request.

Meanwhile, Israeli ground troops reached parts of Lebanon's Litani River for the first time during this conflict. This area is crucial for the emerging ceasefire agreement. In Tyre, Israeli forces reportedly killed a local Hezbollah commander and clashed with Hezbollah fighters near the Litani River.

Continued Hostilities

Despite talks of peace, hostilities persist as Israeli airstrikes continue across Lebanon. A residential building was levelled in Beirut’s Basta district on Tuesday, marking another attack on this densely populated area near downtown Beirut. No casualties were immediately reported from these strikes.

If approved by all parties involved, this deal could significantly ease tensions between Israel and Hezbollah and prevent a broader conflict involving Iran, Hezbollah’s ally. However, both sides must agree on terms for it to proceed successfully.