Ceasefire hope: Israel’s defence chiefs say mission accomplished

Israel’s defence chiefs are reported to be ready for a ceasefire, saying the aim of protecting Israel against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon have been achieved.

They say more extensive fighting will risk large Israeli losses without significantly improving security.

Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said this week that he was hopeful of achieving a ceasefire within days.

A draft ceasefire agreement, obtained by state Israeli broadcaster Kan, would implement UN Resolution 1701 which creates a buffer zone in southern Lebanon. The Lebanese Armed Forces would be the only armed body in southern Lebanon other than UNIFIL, and Hezbollah would be prohibited from operating in the area or attacking Israel.

Israel would not carry out offensive operations in Lebanon, including those against military and government targets.

Writing in Haaretz, Amos Harel said the consensus in the defence establishment over the progress of the war is surprisingly broad.

“All senior officials, from Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on down, have been speaking in near-unison for a week. After a dizzying series of military and intelligence successes in the past three months, the war in the Gaza Strip and in Lebanon has just about exhausted itself, with only a few necessary measures remaining. Once these are completed, it would be best to try to reach agreements that will end the fighting in the north and south and include the release of all hostages.”