Israel says it is attacking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon in a bid to return its citizens who have been displaced from the north by Hezbollah attacks. The country’s officials say that 65,000 Israeli citizens have been evacuated due to conflict on the border.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted Friday that Israel has “no choice” but to keep fighting Lebanon-based Hezbollah, while neglecting to mention a U.S.-backed 21-day cease-fire proposal in the spiraling battle.

The United States is working urgently on a plan to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, according to three sources familiar with the matter, as officials eye with deepening concern the prospects of a widening conflict.