In Lebanon, Israel launched at least seven airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs overnight after ordering residents to leave their homes. At least eight people were killed in Israeli attacks on the village of Dawhit Aramoun, south of the capital. Israeli warplanes also struck Damascus and the Syrian city of Homs. In southern Lebanon, Israel’s army says six soldiers were killed on Wednesday in an exchange of gunfire with Hezbollah fighters defending Lebanese territory. The deaths were announced after Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said he had expanded Israel’s military ground operation in southern Lebanon.

Meanwhile, The Washington Post is reporting a close aide to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Donald Trump and his son-in-law Jared Kushner this week that Israel is rushing to advance a ceasefire deal in Lebanon as a “gift” to Trump ahead of his inauguration in January.