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In a stern warning, Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has asserted that the Israeli military is capable of regressing Lebanon “back to the Stone Age” in the event of a war with Hezbollah militants. Despite the severe rhetoric, Gallant emphasized that the Israeli government prefers a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing tensions at the Israel-Lebanon border.

Speaking at the conclusion of his visit to Washington, Gallant disclosed his discussions with senior US officials regarding postwar governance in Gaza. His proposals involve local Palestinians, regional partners, and the US, but he acknowledged that achieving this would be a “long and complex process.”

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden’s administration has temporarily paused a shipment of heavy bombs to Israel. The decision, under review, stems from concerns about the potential for increased Palestinian civilian casualties in Gaza, according to a senior US official. The ongoing discussions between the allies aim to resolve the issue of this specific shipment of powerful munitions.

Israeli forces have continued heavy bombardments across Gaza, with residents reporting fierce fighting, particularly in Rafah. The conflict has seen armed factions like Hamas and Islamic Jihad engaging Israeli forces with anti-tank rockets and mortar bombs. Reports indicate that the fighting has intensified in the Tel Al-Sultan neighborhood in western Rafah.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has accused Western powers of supporting Israeli plans to expand conflict to Lebanon, alleging that these actions are aimed at spreading war throughout the region. Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, speaking from Beirut, urged all involved parties to accept “peace proposals,” stressing that the Middle East, including Lebanon, “doesn’t need war.”

UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths has warned that a war involving Lebanon could be “potentially apocalyptic.” He emphasized that such a conflict could draw in Syria and other countries, further destabilizing the region.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin conveyed to Gallant that another war with Hezbollah could have “terrible consequences for the Middle East” and advocated for a diplomatic solution. Washington is reportedly engaged in intensive conversations with Israel, Lebanon, and other stakeholders to prevent a major escalation.

Despite these efforts, Gallant reiterated Israel’s readiness for any scenario, indicating that Hezbollah is well aware of the massive damage Israel could inflict on Lebanon if a war were initiated. Gallant also touched upon his “day after” proposals for post-war governance in Gaza, involving local Palestinians, regional partners, and the US. He acknowledged that this process would be lengthy and complex.

Israeli forces have continued their offensive across Gaza, with reports of numerous Palestinian casualties and injuries. The latest data from Gaza’s Health Ministry indicates that 60 Palestinians were killed and 140 injured in a recent 24-hour period. The situation in Rafah remains particularly dire, with ongoing heavy clashes and significant destruction.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. Health officials have reported severe malnutrition among children, with at least 30 deaths attributed to it since the conflict began. The scarcity of food and basic necessities is exacerbating the crisis, with many areas struggling with dehydration and starvation.

UN aid chief Martin Griffiths has called for unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza, demanding the opening of crossing points and the protection of aid workers and health institutions. He emphasized the need for a ceasefire to prevent further tragedy and ensure the future rights of the Palestinian people.

The West Bank has also seen significant unrest, with a spike in mass arrests by Israeli forces and increased settler violence. The UN human rights office reported that 528 Palestinians, including 133 children, have been killed in the West Bank since the assault on Gaza began. There are serious concerns about the legality of some of these killings.

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