Israel rejects all cease-fire proposals, says Lebanese PM Mikati
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati speaks during the International Conference in Support of Lebanon's People and Sovereignty in Paris, France on October 24, 2024. (AA Photo)
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has urged the international community to intervene against Israel’s ongoing military actions, stating that Israel has rejected all cease-fire proposals.
In a statement from his office, Mikati criticized global leaders for not taking decisive action against Israel, emphasizing Lebanon’s commitment to U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701.
He expressed willingness to bolster the Lebanese army in the south and highlighted that despite Lebanon welcoming cease-fire efforts, Israel has intensified its military operations and targeted cultural heritage sites.
Mikati announced a government decision to increase the army’s ranks by 1,500 personnel, with additional measures to be discussed in future cabinet meetings. He also revealed that the Health Ministry presented a report on the destruction in the health sector due to Israeli airstrikes to ambassadors from the U.N. Security Council’s permanent members and European Union nations, with Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib in attendance.
Expressing grave concern over the damage to historical sites in Baalbek and Tyre, Mikati called on the Security Council to act, stating:
“These historic treasures, which are part of our national identity and hold global significance, must be protected. We must collaborate to ensure their preservation for future generations.”
Casualties amid ongoing conflict
Since October 8, 2023, Israeli military operations have resulted in 2,986 deaths in Lebanon, including 104 children and 194 women, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. The recent conflict has also injured 13,402 individuals.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was reported killed in an Israeli airstrike on Beirut on September 27. In retaliation, Hezbollah has targeted Israeli military bases with rockets and missiles, though reports indicate limited damage on the Israeli side.
Israel’s bombardment has displaced hundreds of thousands of people in Lebanon, prompting significant migration from southern regions to Beirut and northern areas. The Lebanese government reported that over 539,000 displaced individuals have fled to Syria.
