Israeli Government Says Military Operation In Lebanon Will Continue Amid Cease-Fire Efforts

An Israeli government spokesperson said on Monday its military operation in Lebanon will continue as negotiations continue over a US proposal to secure a cease-fire with Hezbollah.

Spokesperson David Mencer claimed Israel would only be willing to accept the end of fighting with the militant group Hezbollah once the "threat" at its northern border had been removed.

The Biden administration is trying to halt the war between Israel and the militant group after months of sputtering cease-fire efforts.

A government minister close to Hezbollah says Lebanon will convey its “positive position” on the latest proposal this week.

Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally who is mediating for the militants, is expected to meet with US envoy Amos Hochstein in the Lebanese capital on Tuesday.

The efforts are aimed at reestablishing a UN buffer zone in southern Lebanon established after the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war.

Israel is said to be pushing for guarantees it can continue to act militarily against Hezbollah if needed, a demand the Lebanese are unlikely to accept.