Israel Strikes Continue Despite US Call for Calm

Israel Defies US, Continues Hezbollah Strikes Amid Fragile Ceasefire

The United States is attempting to broker a fragile ceasefire with Iran, but Israel’s ongoing offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon is creating significant tension. Despite a call from President Trump for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to scale back attacks, Israel has vowed to continue its operations, stating there is no ceasefire with Hezbollah. This defiance comes as Iran asserts control over the Strait of Hormuz, complicating U.S. diplomatic efforts.

U.S. Claims Lebanon Outside Ceasefire Deal

The Trump administration insists that Lebanon was not included in the ceasefire agreement discussed with Iran. White House officials stated that the ceasefire was intended to focus on Iran and its allies, specifically Israel and Gulf Arab states, not Lebanon. This interpretation directly contradicts Iran’s understanding of the deal, which it claims Israel’s actions have violated. The U.S. maintains that Lebanon is not part of the current ceasefire terms, though discussions between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu are ongoing.

President Trump Urges Netanyahu to ‘Lowkey It’

President Trump personally asked Prime Minister Netanyahu to reduce Israel’s strikes in Lebanon. The President expressed a desire for a more subdued approach, telling reporters, “I spoke with Netanyahu and he’s going to lowkey it. I just think we sort of have to be a little more lowkey.” This intervention highlights U.S. concerns that the escalating conflict in Lebanon could jeopardize upcoming negotiations with Iran. Despite the President’s request, Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated that Israel is seeking direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible while continuing its strikes.

Iran Reasserts Control Over Strait of Hormuz

While the White House claims Iran has agreed to reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz, Iran states it remains closed. Marine traffic has been severely restricted, with only five vessels passing through the strait on the day of the report, a stark contrast to the usual over 100 daily passages. Iran’s Supreme Leader has indicated a new phase in managing the strait and seeks a decisive victory, whether through negotiation or conflict. Analysts note that Iran’s control over the strait remains a significant leverage point.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Lebanon

The intensified violence has led to a dire humanitarian situation in Lebanon. Over a million people have been displaced in the last five weeks. Families are struggling with limited resources, and basic necessities are scarce. Chef José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen has been working tirelessly to provide meals, but the need is immense. Reports indicate that hospitals are overcrowded and lacking essential supplies, with evacuation orders for major medical facilities exacerbating the crisis. The situation has led to acute food insecurity for a significant portion of the population.

Israel’s Stance: Degrading Hezbollah Capabilities

Ofir Falk, Chief Foreign Policy Advisor to Prime Minister Netanyahu, clarified Israel’s position. He stated that yesterday’s strike was the hardest hit on Hezbollah since a previous operation, resulting in the elimination of hundreds of Hezbollah terrorists. Falk emphasized that Israel must degrade Hezbollah’s capabilities to prevent a similar threat to what Hamas poses in the south. He asserted that while Israel cooperates closely with the U.S., there is no ceasefire with Hezbollah, and the goal is to dismantle the organization and secure Israeli citizens. Falk also noted that while Israel considers civilian harm mitigation, Hezbollah deliberately uses civilians as human shields.

Path to Negotiations: Peace Through Strength

Falk outlined Israel’s goal in negotiations with Lebanon as dismantling Hezbollah and reaching a peace agreement. He believes this is a mutual interest for the Lebanese people and government, freeing them from Hezbollah’s control. Israel aims to degrade Hezbollah’s capabilities significantly to enable these negotiations and forge a historic peace. However, Falk also pointed to the Lebanese government’s past failure to disarm Hezbollah as a reason for Israel’s current actions, stating that Israel is now demilitarizing southern Lebanon and expecting the Lebanese government to step up.

Market Reactions and Oil Prices

Stock markets initially opened in the red but bounced back, showing optimism that the ceasefire might hold, driven by reports of Israel opening conversations with Lebanon. However, analysts caution that volatility remains high, with no significant portfolio changes being made by investors. Oil prices saw a jump, settling around $98 per barrel, indicating a shift in market thinking about the ceasefire. Despite this, prices remain significantly higher than pre-war levels. Analysts suggest that even with a stable ceasefire, damaged oil production facilities in the region could keep oil costs elevated for years.

Looking Ahead

The coming days will be crucial in determining the fate of the ceasefire and the broader regional stability. Attention will be fixed on whether Israel adheres to President Trump’s call for de-escalation and how Iran responds to ongoing diplomatic efforts. The humanitarian crisis in Lebanon also demands urgent attention, with international aid organizations working to support displaced populations. The complex interplay between military actions, diplomatic negotiations, and economic impacts will continue to shape the narrative in the Middle East.

Source: Netanyahu adviser says attacks on Hezbollah will continue after Trump call to scale back (YouTube)