Israel "continues airstrikes in Lebanon regardless of ceasefire negotiations"

While the U.S. special envoy for the Middle East is expected to visit Lebanon to discuss a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, Israel has stressed that military operations will continue apart from the negotiations.

Israeli government spokesman David Menser said at a briefing on the 18th local time that the fighting could only be ended if the threat at the northern border disappeared and residents could return home.

Israel reportedly insists on putting a clause in the cease-fire that would allow it to continue its military operations against Hezbollah if necessary.