Netanyahu Rejects US-French 21-Day Ceasefire Proposal, Vows Full Force Against Hezbollah in Gaza and Lebanon

Sep 26, 2024, 11:53 AM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue the military campaign against Hezbollah with full force, rejecting a US-French proposal for a 21-day ceasefire. Netanyahu emphasized that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) would keep striking Hezbollah until all objectives are achieved and northern residents can safely return to their homes. The proposal, which was backed by the US, France, and other allies, aimed to halt the fighting to allow for diplomatic negotiations. However, Netanyahu's office denied any agreement on a ceasefire and stated that the military operations would persist in both Lebanon and Gaza. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also opposed the ceasefire, calling for the 'crushing' of Hezbollah.