Lebanon ceasefire deal makes progress, France reports at UN
(VOVWORLD) - France said on Wednesday that efforts would continue in coming hours to clinch a deal on a proposal for a 21-day ceasefire in the Lebanon conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
 The United Nations Security Council meets on the escalation in fighting in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah during the United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York, US, September 25, 2024. (REUTERS/David Dee Delgado) |
"We have made important progress in the last few hours and we will continue our efforts in the coming hours," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told reporters outside a meeting of the UN Security Council.
Israel widened its airstrikes in Lebanon on Wednesday and at least 72 people were killed, according to a Reuters compilation of Lebanese health ministry statements. Israel's military chief said a ground assault was possible, raising fears the conflict could spark a wider Middle East war.
The US is working with other countries to avert an escalation of hostilities, enable displaced people in Lebanon and Israel to return home and allow for discussions on a broader diplomatic solution, Deputy US Ambassador to the U.N. Robert Wood told the council.