Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has walked back from a private agreement with the Biden administration regarding a proposed 21-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The ceasefire initiative, supported by the U.S., France, and other international allies, was introduced to de-escalate the ongoing conflict between Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants. However, Netanyahu’s shift in stance has raised tensions with Washington and sparked debate within his own government.

The Biden administration had engaged in extensive discussions with Netanyahu and his close advisers, leading them to believe Israel was on board with the proposal. U.S. officials, including White House spokesperson John Kirby, confirmed that the plan was developed with Israeli input and knowledge. Kirby expressed confusion at Netanyahu’s sudden opposition, stating that Israel had been involved in every stage of the negotiation process.

The shift in Netanyahu’s position appears to be in response to significant political pressure from far-right ministers in his government, as well as criticism from Israeli opposition leaders. Ultranationalist cabinet members such as Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir openly opposed the ceasefire and threatened to disrupt the coalition if it were approved. As Netanyahu traveled to New York to attend the UN General Assembly, he emphasized that Israel’s current policy focuses on continued military action against Hezbollah.

On the ground, fighting continues to intensify, with Hezbollah launching more than 100 rockets and drones at Israeli targets. Israel, in turn, has carried out several airstrikes in Beirut, including attacks that allegedly killed senior Hezbollah commanders. With over 700 casualties reported in Lebanon, including many civilians, the situation remains volatile.

Despite Netanyahu’s statements, the Biden administration has not given up on the ceasefire initiative. Talks are expected to continue in New York between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israeli officials. U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Jack Lew, has reiterated the need for a ceasefire to restore safety and allow displaced citizens to return to their homes.

The coming days will reveal whether diplomacy or continued military action will shape the outcome of the ongoing conflict.