### Israel Vows No Cease-Fire in Lebanon Until Objectives Met

In a statement on Tuesday, Israeli official Katz declared that there would be no cease-fire or reprieve in Lebanon until Israel's war objectives are fully realized. Katz made these remarks during an Israel Defense Forces General Staff meeting on Monday, emphasizing the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah across the Lebanese border.

Since October of last year, Israel has been engaged in combat with the Iran-backed Hamas in Gaza, while simultaneously exchanging attacks with Hezbollah in Lebanon. The Israeli Security Cabinet updated its war objectives in mid-September, with a particular focus on ensuring the safe return of the tens of thousands of Israelis who were evacuated from northern regions due to the hostilities with Hezbollah.

The war objectives update, announced in mid-September, signaled a new phase in the conflict. In response, Israel significantly escalated its military actions starting on September 23. These actions involved intensified airstrikes and ground incursions into Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of thousands, including Hezbollah leaders, operatives, and civilians.

Katz emphasized that Israeli military efforts must persist to further weaken Hezbollah's capabilities. "We will continue to strike Hezbollah with full force until the war's objectives are achieved," Katz stated. The objectives include disarming Hezbollah, pushing them beyond the Litani River, and guaranteeing the safe return of northern residents to their homes.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah spokesman Mohammad Afif, in a press conference on Monday, denied receiving any cease-fire proposals from Israel. He indicated that Hezbollah is prepared for an extended conflict, stating, "We are ready for a prolonged war with the occupation on all levels."

The conflict has resulted in significant casualties. According to Lebanon's ministry of health, more than 3,240 people have died, and over 14,130 have been injured during the year of fighting, with the majority of casualties occurring since the mid-September escalation.