BEIRUT, Aug. 15 (Xinhua) -- Hezbollah on Saturday called on the Lebanese authorities to stop pursuing direct negotiations with Israel, describing the talks as "humiliating."
In a statement following Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon earlier in the day, the group accused Israel of continuing a campaign of attacks against Lebanese civilians, homes and agricultural areas.
Hezbollah said the Israeli escalation reflected Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's desire to intensify the war in order to strengthen his domestic political position, serve electoral interests and appease the far right.
It also accused the United States of pushing Lebanon toward negotiations that serve Israeli interests, and of providing Israel with political and military support.
The group urged the Lebanese authorities to "review their calculations comprehensively" to protect Lebanon's sovereignty and rights, rather than continuing its current policies.
Hezbollah also warned Israel that attempts to impose a new reality in Lebanon "cannot continue," saying such actions would draw an "appropriate response" in defense of Lebanon and its people.
Earlier in the day, Israel carried out airstrikes on the town of Deir Al Zahrani and Ansar in the Nabatieh District, southern Lebanon, killing 11 and injuring 19, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. ■
