The United Nations General Assembly made a significant move on Tuesday, urging Israel to withdraw from the occupied Palestinian territories and advocating for the establishment of a Palestinian state. In a resolution passed by a 157-8 vote, with notable objections from the U.S. and Israel, the Assembly emphasized unwavering support for a two-state solution, envisioning Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace within recognized pre-1967 borders.
Amidst these diplomatic efforts, tensions remain high on the ground. Israel launched an airstrike in the southern Lebanese town of Shebaa, resulting in the death of one individual. Lebanese media condemned the strike as a breach of the recently agreed ceasefire with Hezbollah.
In response to the escalating situation, the Lebanese army has increased its presence in Tyre and surrounding areas, deploying additional soldiers to border villages. The Lebanese Defense Ministry also announced a call for new recruits to bolster combat units.
Earlier in the week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude towards U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for his strong statements regarding hostages held by Hamas. However, a senior Hamas official criticized Netanyahu, accusing him of undermining efforts to negotiate the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners.
Israeli officials have also warned of expanding military operations targeting Lebanese state-linked locations if the ceasefire with Hezbollah collapses. This warning follows Hezbollah's launch of mortars into a disputed border area, accusing Israel of violating the truce. Israel retaliated with airstrikes on over 20 sites across Lebanon.
The ongoing conflict highlights the fragile state of peace in the region, with international calls for a sustainable resolution amidst continued hostilities.
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UN pushes for Palestinian state, Israel launches new strike on Lebanon
cgtn.com
