Israel has designated parts of its northern border as a closed military zone, in anticipation of a ground operation in Lebanon.
Foreign news agencies reported that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had a brief update on Monday, September 30, 2024, that they had declared some areas along the northern border of the country a “closed military zone” and prohibited entry into several border towns including Metula, Miskaf Am and Kfar Giladi.
The latest Israeli move comes amid expectations that it is preparing for an imminent ground offensive in Lebanon, with Russian officials saying they had been informed by Israel that they intended to carry out a limited ground operation in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has told troops stationed near the Lebanese border to prepare for the use of air, sea and ground forces.
Many are concerned that an Israeli ground attack could worsen tensions in the Middle East, and Israel’s ally the United States is trying to persuade the Jewish government to agree to a ceasefire with Lebanon.
On Monday, US President Joe Biden renewed his call for a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, while State Department spokesman Matthew Miller confirmed that the US had spoken with Israel about a limited operation near the Lebanese border, but would leave the details of the plan to Israel.
Miller also stressed that the US still wants to end the conflict diplomatically and that it supports a 21-day ceasefire proposal that it and its 12 allies proposed last week.
A US State Department spokesperson added that military pressure can sometimes help foster diplomatic negotiations, but it can also lead to miscalculations and unintended consequences. Israel has the right to defend itself, but it must do so in a way that avoids any miscalculations.
Asked by reporters whether Israel had ignored US calls for restraint, Miller said the US would continue to try to de-escalate tensions, but that ultimately, Israel was a sovereign country that would make its own decisions.
Source:bbc
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