September 18, 2024 16:35 GMT
Israel Moves To New Phase Of War, UNSC Meets Over Lebanon Pager Blasts
SECURITY
EM BulletHomepagemarkets-real-timePolitical RiskCommoditiesPolitical Risk BulletEmerging Market NewsMetals bulletEnergy BulletsBulletMarketsFixed Income BulletsForeign Exchange BulletsPolitical Market News
The United National Security Council President, Slovenia, has confirmed that the group will meet on Friday to discuss the 'pager blasts' that struck Hezbollah operatives in Lebanon yesterday and today, widely believed to have been carried out by Israeli intelligence services.
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the pager blasts indicate a, "serious risk of a dramatic escalation in Lebanon and everything must be done to avoid that escalation."
- Reuters notes: "Asked about pager blasts in Lebanon, UN chief Guterres says it is very important not to weaponize civilian objects."
- Barack Ravid at Axios reports that two sources with knowledge of the operation said: "Israel's goal in the second wave of attacks was to increase paranoia and fear in Hezbollah's ranks, in an attempt to press the militia's leadership to change its policy regarding the conflict with Israel."
- One of the sources added: "The goal was to convince Hezbollah that it is in its interest to disconnect itself from Hamas and cut a separate deal for ending the fighting with Israel regardless of a ceasefire in Gaza."
- Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said at an Israeli air force base a short time ago that, "the center of gravity is moving from Gaza to the north through the diversion of resources and forces. We are opening a new phase in the war."
216 words