Statement on ceasefire from Israel's new Defense Minister Katz
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz stated that Israel, which continues its attacks in Lebanon, will not agree to a ceasefire with Hezbollah "until its goals are achieved."
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During a meeting with Israeli military officials, Katz made statements regarding the conflict with Hezbollah, the attacks in Gaza, and the rising tensions with Iran.
Claiming that "Iran's nuclear facilities are more vulnerable than ever following Israel's strikes on its air defense installations," Katz asserted that the most important goal of the attacks that have caused massive destruction in Gaza is to bring back the Israeli hostages.
Regarding the attacks in Lebanon, Katz stated, "There will be no ceasefire (with Hezbollah) until the goals of the war are achieved."
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar had previously stated that "certain progress" had been made regarding reaching a ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Reports in the Israeli press indicated that Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, known for his closeness to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, had traveled to the US to discuss a ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon.
In a report by the Yedioth Ahronot newspaper, which cited unnamed US officials, it was also claimed that US President-elect Donald Trump had sent a message to the Biden administration regarding reaching a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.