Netanyahu Vows to Strike Hezbollah Until All Goals Are Met

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Thursday that Israel will persist in its aggressive operations against Hezbollah, emphasizing that the strikes will continue unabated until all objectives are met, including the secure return of northern residents to their homes. This declaration came as he arrived in New York for the U.N. General Assembly amidst efforts by the U.S. and Europe to instigate a 21-day ceasefire for peace talks.

Prior to this, the Israeli military reported an operation targeting a Hezbollah drone commander in Beirut’s southern suburbs. Netanyahu’s firm stance diminishes the prospects of an impending ceasefire, with Israel intensifying its military actions in Lebanon over the past week, citing direct responses to over 11 months of cross-border attacks by Hezbollah.

The international community’s call for a ceasefire aims to curb the severe hostilities that have already resulted in significant casualties in Lebanon and heightened the risk of a full-scale war. Israel is also considering a ground invasion to displace Hezbollah forces from proximate border areas.

While Hezbollah has yet to formally respond to the ceasefire suggestion, Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati has endorsed it, highlighting the regional desire for peace. However, Hezbollah remains steadfast, conditioning any cessation of hostilities on a ceasefire in Gaza, where Israel has been engaged with Hamas for nearly a year.

Amidst these tensions, Netanyahu affirmed the continuation of the Gaza operations until all military goals are achieved. His statements coincide with potential political instability within his government, as far-right coalition partners threaten withdrawal support should a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah materialize, potentially jeopardizing his majority in parliament.