FDD | October 31, 2024
Latest Developments
Seven people across northern Israel were killed by Hezbollah rocket fire on October 31 amid ongoing discussions to halt the war between Israel and the Iran-backed terrorist organization in Lebanon. Five people were killed by a Hezbollah attack near Metula, while two more were killed near Haifa by a separate Hezbollah barrage fired later in the day.
The latest deadly attacks come as U.S. officials Brett McGurk and Amos Hochstein are set to travel to Israel to discuss ceasefires in both Lebanon and Gaza. Speaking for Hamas, Taher al-Nunu, a senior official, told media outlets that the Iran-backed terrorist organization “supports a permanent end to the war” and will reject outright any temporary ceasefire proposal.
A leaked document containing an apparent U.S. proposal to end the war in Lebanon outlined a 60-day ceasefire, during which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would withdraw their troops incrementally as United Nations peacekeepers and Lebanese Armed Forces troops would take control of the country’s border with Israel. The proposal would also require Hezbollah to disarm and retreat north of the Litani River, in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701.
However, the White House subsequently distanced itself from the proposal, which it argued does not “reflect the current state of negotiations.” Newly appointed Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem said in his first broadcast speech as leader, “If the Israelis decide that they want to stop the aggression, we say we accept, but under the conditions that we see as appropriate and suitable.”
Expert Analysis
“Today’s lethal strikes are further proof that Hezbollah remains a danger to Israeli security and lives. Israel has dealt the group significant blows, but the job is far from finished.” — David Daoud, FDD Senior Fellow
“Residents in northern Israel remain within range of Hezbollah’s rockets, and today’s attacks reveal the persistent risk for civilians in these border areas. These latest attacks reaffirm that the border area remains unsafe for civilians to return. Israel must continue its objective to weaken Hezbollah’s presence, dismantle its positions, and destroy its infrastructure south of the Litani River.” — Ahmad Sharawi, FDD Research Analyst
“Israel Eliminates Deputy Commander of Hezbollah’s Radwan Force,” FDD Flash Brief
“Naim Qassem vows Hezbollah will continue fighting,” by David Daoud
“At Least Two Killed in Hezbollah Rocket Attack on Israeli Arab Town,” FDD Flash Brief
“Hezbollah continues to fire large barrages of rockets at Israel,” by Seth J. Frantzman
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