US and allies call for 21-day ceasefire across Lebanon-Israel border

The United States, EU and allied nations have called for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon, following an escalation in fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

The 11-strong bloc has proposed an immediate 21-day pause in fighting "to provide space for diplomacy towards the conclusion of a diplomatic settlement" and a ceasefire in Gaza.

In a joint statement, they said the hostilities were "intolerable" and presented an "unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation" that was neither in the interest of the people of Israel or Lebanon.

It comes after Israel’s military chief told troops that extensive air strikes in Lebanon targeting Hezbollah could pave the way for them to “enter enemy territory”.

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

You can receive Breaking News on a smartphone or tablet via the BBC News App. You can also follow @BBCBreaking on Twitter to get the latest alerts.