Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon told reporters before a UN Security Council meeting that Israel would welcome a ceasefire on the Israel-Lebanon border and preferred a diplomatic solution, reports. He then told the UNSC that Iran was the nexus of violence in the region and peace required dismantling the threat. Israel widened its airstrikes in Lebanon on Wednesday and at least 72 people were killed, according to a compilation of Lebanese health ministry statements. The ministry earlier said at least 223 were wounded. Israel’s military chief said a ground assault was possible, raising fears the conflict could spark a wider Middle East war.