According to an Arab diplomatic source reported today (Thursday) by Lebanese channel LBCI, Dermer conveyed this message to Hochstein, as reported by Channel 12. Additionally, Reuters reported that Israel rejected ceasefire proposals with Hezbollah on Thursday, contrary to calls from allies, including the U.S., for a cessation of hostilities.
It’s worth noting that National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir earlier today sent a clear message to Prime Minister Netanyahu that if a temporary ceasefire is signed, Otzma Yehudit would no longer be committed to the coalition and would resign from the government in the case of a permanent ceasefire.
At the conclusion of a meeting of the Otzma Yehudit faction convened amid negotiations between Israel and Hezbollah for a ceasefire agreement, Ben-Gvir stated, "The most basic and obvious thing is that when your enemy is on its knees, you do not allow it to recover but act to defeat it. If you do not do this, you send a message of weakness, jeopardizing the security of your citizens and proving that you do not intend to win." Ben-Gvir outlined his actions in the event of a ceasefire: "Therefore, the Otzma Yehudit faction, led by me, informs the Prime Minister: If a temporary ceasefire is signed with Hezbollah, the Otzma Yehudit faction removes any coalition commitment—meaning no votes, no participation in government or cabinet meetings, and no coalition activities."
Following these reports, IDF forces conducted targeted strikes in the Dahieh district of Beirut. According to initial reports, the target of the strike was Muhammad Hussein Sarour, the commander of Hezbollah's drone unit.
In Israel, there are indications that the operation in Beirut was successful. There are positive signs, and they are awaiting final confirmation, as reported by military correspondent Doron Kadush.
