US and Allies call for ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah

The 12-nation bloc called for an immediate 21-day fighting break in order to enable “space towards a diplomatic solution” and a ceasefire at the Gaza Strip.

In a joint communiqué, these countries said the fighting is “incompatible” and that they pose unacceptable risks for a regional escalation”, which is not in the interest of the people of Israel or Lebanon.

This request comes a day after the Israeli Army said the bombings against Hezbollah's targets of the militant group declared by the US terrorist organisation could pave the way for an ground offensive in Lebanon.

The joint declaration was signed by the US, Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Great Britain and Qatar.

The US hopes the temporary ceasefire can lead to long-term stability along the border between Israel and Lebanon.

Tens of thousands of people have been forced to move from their homes as a result of the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, which escalated last week inciting fears of a wide war in the Middle East.

More than 600 people were killed in Lebanon by Monday, when Israel began the ongoing bombings to destroy what it called Hezbollah-made infrastructure from the recent war between them in 2006.

About 90,000 people in Lebanon have moved to Lebanon this week alone, according to the UN. Some 40,000 others live in pavilions around the country.

US officials have said they intend to use the three-week ceasefire to resume stalled talks on a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as well as the release of hostages.

Hamas is another group backed by Iran but declared terrorist organisation by the United States and the European Union.

Hezbollah began throwing missiles at Israel daily after the October 7th attack on Israel by Hamas.

Israel has responded with air strikes, and the conflict has increased since then.

Hezbollah has said it will continue to launch attacks on Israel until a ceasefire is reached at the Gaza Strip.

Hamas ' militants stormed south of Israel on October 7 and killed some 1,200 people - mainly civilians - and were kidnapped by 250 others.

Israel's Gaza war has since killed over 41,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. / REL