“A very strong response soon” –

Israel is preparing for a possible ground operation in Lebanon. This is confirmed by the last words of the Chief of Staff of the Israeli Forces (IDF), Herzi Halevi. «Hear the jets. We attacked all day. It is both to prepare the ground for your possible entry (into Lebanon) and to continue to damage Hezbollah,” he told troops during a simulated ground offensive in Lebanon, the Times of Israel reported. “Today Hezbollah has expanded its range of action – he added – Later, it will receive a very strong response.” The declared objective is to allow the inhabitants of northern Israel to return to their homes. “For this reason – said Halevi – we are preparing the ground maneuver”.

The Biden Administration, meanwhile, is working on a new diplomatic initiative for a “pause” in the fighting in Lebanon and a resumption of negotiations on the issue of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza. This was reported by Axios, citing two American officials, an Israeli official and two sources with direct knowledge of the initiative. According to the news site, the White House plan could be announced as early as today. Talks on this new initiative – according to American and Israeli officials – began with a phone call last Monday between the White House National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, and the Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs, Ron Dermer.

In the last two days – specify a US official and a European diplomat – the United States has discussed the idea with France, Israel, Lebanon and several Arab countries. “We are working with several countries on a proposal for a diplomatic solution for the north” of Israel, a US official confirmed. “Netanyahu has given the green light to discuss this initiative,” added an Israeli source.