The US-brokered attempt to find a peaceful solution to the conflict between Israel and Lebanon has failed. Negotiations aimed at preventing escalation and a possible Israeli invasion of Lebanese territory have failed to produce the desired result. On Tuesday, the Israeli Security Cabinet voted to review military objectives and prepare for possible action against the Lebanese group Hezbollah.

One of Israel's key goals is to create a buffer zone in southern Lebanon to prevent further threats from Hezbollah and to strengthen border security. Israeli officials say the group's actions pose a grave danger to the Jewish state and that action must be taken immediately. In a vote, the Security Cabinet approved a new course aimed at destroying Hezbollah's infrastructure in Lebanon, effectively bringing the start of a military operation closer.