New York, NY – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in New York on Thursday with a strong message for Hezbollah, promising to continue relentless strikes until the group stops firing rockets across the border. The escalation in violence has dampened hopes for a proposed 21-day cease-fire put forth by U.S. and European officials, as both sides show no signs of backing down.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has resulted in thousands of rockets being launched into Israel and a senior Hezbollah commander being killed in a new strike in the Lebanese capital. Tens of thousands of Israeli and Lebanese residents near the border have been displaced due to the ongoing fighting.

With nearly 700 people killed in Lebanon this week alone, Israel has significantly escalated its strikes against Hezbollah, targeting the group’s military capabilities. The conflict stemmed from Hamas’ attack on October 7, sparking the war in Gaza and leading to cross-border attacks by Hezbollah.

Despite international pressure for a cease-fire to allow for diplomatic efforts, Netanyahu remains steadfast in Israel’s mission to secure the return of residents to their homes. The Israeli military continues to carry out strikes in Beirut, targeting senior Hezbollah commanders and intensifying the violence in the region.

As tensions rise, fears of a full-scale war similar to the 2006 conflict between Israel and Hezbollah loom large. U.S. officials, including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, are urging both sides to consider the proposed cease-fire to prevent further devastation.

Netanyahu’s stance on the cease-fire proposal remains uncertain, with political allies expressing opposition to any temporary agreements with Hezbollah. The potential fallout from such agreements could impact the stability of Netanyahu’s government, raising concerns about its future.

Hezbollah has tied its cessation of strikes to a cease-fire in Gaza, showcasing the interconnectedness of conflicts in the region. The ongoing violence has resulted in significant casualties on both sides and forced many to flee their homes, exacerbating an already dire situation.

The relentless cycle of violence shows no signs of abating, with both sides adamant about achieving their respective goals. International efforts to broker a truce face significant challenges, as underlying tensions and geopolitical dynamics continue to fuel the conflict.