Israel has defied widespread international calls, including from the United States, for a ceasefire with Hezbollah. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, including a U.S.-France-backed 21-day truce proposal, Israel pressed forward with airstrikes in Lebanon, killing over 600 people since the escalation began on Monday.

Israeli forces targeted Hezbollah commanders in the latest series of strikes, including an airstrike near Beirut that killed Mohammad Surur, head of Hezbollah’s air force unit. The strike also resulted in 28 civilian deaths, adding to fears of a broader regional conflict. The Israeli military is preparing for a potential ground invasion into Lebanon, with Air Force Commander Major General Tomer Bar stating that the military is "ready, if activated."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that the military would not stop its operations until all objectives were met, including securing Israel’s northern border and allowing evacuated residents to return home. “We will hit Hezbollah with full force,” Netanyahu said.

Meanwhile, the U.S. and France are attempting to revive the ceasefire proposal. While Israel has rejected it, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed hope that Israel’s stance could change, warning of the consequences of escalating regional tensions. Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib appealed to the United Nations for an immediate ceasefire, describing the situation as a threat to Lebanon’s existence.

Despite diplomatic pushes, hostilities continue. Hezbollah has fired hundreds of missiles into Israel, while Israeli forces struck targets on the Lebanese-Syrian border to prevent weapon transfers to Hezbollah. As the violence escalates, hundreds of thousands of civilians in Lebanon are displaced, with aid organizations providing emergency relief in shelters.

The U.S. remains engaged in diplomatic discussions, with senior officials like Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urging for a peaceful resolution. Austin emphasized that a diplomatic solution is still possible, despite rising tensions in the region. However, with ongoing missile exchanges and airstrikes, the prospect of an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah looms larger by the day.