Netanyahu halts Lebanon ceasefire vote after Hezbollah rejects proposal

Israeli ministers voiced strong opposition to a proposed ceasefire with Lebanon during a security cabinet meeting, leading Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt any potential vote. The decision came after Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Qassem rejected the U.S.-backed proposal.

Hezbollah's rejection was based on their demand for a comprehensive ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. Netanyahu reportedly informed his cabinet that a vote on the deal was contingent on Hezbollah's formal acceptance of its terms. "Hezbollah rejected it, and therefore I am not bringing it to a vote," the Prime Minister was quoted as saying.

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Hezbollah rejected it, and therefore I am not bringing it to a vote.

Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged Netanyahu to pursue a more aggressive military strategy. Ben-Gvir reportedly advised the Prime Minister to travel to the United States with children from northern Israel and demand a strike against Hezbollah's strongholds in Beirut's Dahieh district, even if it risked escalation. He emphasized the necessity of a ground maneuver, stating, "Our soldiers are more important."

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Go to the United States and take children from Kiryat Shmona and Metula with you. Tell Trump: We love you, but we must strike Hezbollah’s vulnerable points in Beirut’s Dahieh district. Even if it causes an escalation, a ground maneuver is necessary. Our soldiers are more important.