Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed strong disapproval on Friday regarding Israel’s intensified military actions against his nation, asserting that these actions reflect a dismissal of ongoing efforts to establish a ceasefire following over a month of conflict.
“The Israeli adversary’s renewed escalation of its aggression towards Lebanese territories, coupled with its persistent threats urging the evacuation of entire cities and villages, as well as its renewed assaults on the southern suburbs of Beirut, serve as clear indicators of Israel’s refusal to engage in any ceasefire negotiations,” Mikati stated.
This declaration from Mikati followed a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and visiting US officials, where discussions regarding a potential resolution to the conflict in Lebanon took place.
Mikati further remarked that Israel’s diplomatic conduct implied a rejection of a ceasefire agreement.
“The statements and diplomatic communications received from Israel affirm its obstinacy in dismissing proposed solutions, opting instead for a strategy of violence and devastation,” Mikati noted in his statement.
Since the outbreak of hostilities in Lebanon on September 23, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 1,829 individuals in Lebanon, as reported by an AFP tally based on health ministry data.
On Wednesday, Mikati mentioned that US envoy Amos Hochstein had indicated during a phone conversation that a ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict could be achievable prior to the US elections scheduled for November 5.
On the same day, the newly appointed leader of Hezbollah stated that the organization would be open to a ceasefire with Israel, provided that the terms are deemed acceptable; however, he noted that a feasible agreement has not yet been proposed.
In discussions on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu conveyed to US representatives Amos Hochstein and Brett McGurk that any agreement concerning Lebanon must ensure Israel’s long-term security.
