Australia part of massive push for Middle East ceasefire

Australia has joined the United States and other countries in calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.

In a joint statement put out on Wednesday (local time), the US, Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan and several Gulf states called for an immediate 21-day ceasefire, saying the situation between Israel and Lebanon was “intolerable and presents an unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation.”

“This is in nobody’s interest, neither of the people of Israel nor of the people of Lebanon,” the countries said.

“It is time to conclude a diplomatic settlement that enables civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes in safety.

“Diplomacy however cannot succeed amid an escalation of this conflict.”

The statement called for an “immediate 21 day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border to provide space for diplomacy”, with a view to “conclude an agreement” within the period that “ends this crisis altogether.”

The urgent plea came after Israel’s defence chief vowed a ground incursion into Lebanon amid days of deadly airsrikes on Hezbollah targets.

Hezbollah, a designated terrorist organisation backed by Iran, began firing rockets at civilians areas in northern Israel last year in solidarity with Hamas, forcing tens of thousands from their homes.

ASPI Executive Director Justin Bassi has joined Sky News Australia to discuss Israel’s planning of a possible ground invasion into Lebanon. “It’s important to distinguish between being prepared for a ground operation and what’s necessary,” Mr Bassi said. “The Israeli targeting of Hezbollah’s’ communication network, decimating its senior leadership, we are seeing its preparations for the ground operation. “The question is will it be necessary or will Hezbollah be deterred into winding back its rocket attacks.”

The group extended the reach of its cross-border attacks overnight, with the Israeli business capital Tel Aviv coming under fire.

In videos released by the Israeli military Wednesday (local time), defence chief Herzi Halevi told troops in Israel’s north that their “boots will enter enemy territory”.

More than 600 people have been killed and nearly 2000 injured in Lebanon since Israel’s air strikes began on Monday, according to health officials.

Some 90,000 more have been displaced.

More to come.