Israeli Ministers Reject Ceasefire Calls, Escalate Military Operations in Lebanon

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed U.S. and French proposals for a 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon. The Israeli military has intensified airstrikes against Hezbollah, with over 600 casualties reported. The conflict has escalated with cross-border fire and potential ground invasion threats looming.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have dismissed the U.S. and French calls for a 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon. Katz stated on social media that there will be no ceasefire in the north, reaffirming the government's commitment to continue military operations against Hezbollah.

Prime Minister Netanyahu, addressing the nation from the United Nations, confirmed that he has instructed the military to maintain full force operations as per their plans. The Israeli military launched a new wave of airstrikes against Hezbollah targets shortly after his statement.

The U.S. and France, along with other allies, had proposed the ceasefire to enable diplomatic negotiations. However, with more than 600 casualties reported from Israel's heaviest airstrikes since the 2006 war, the conflict appears to be nearing an all-out war despite international efforts to broker peace.

(With inputs from agencies.)