The Israeli military has recently intensified its operations in southern Lebanon, conducting airstrikes aimed at countering Hezbollah’s alleged rearmament efforts. The strikes targeted the towns of Kfar Dounine, Tayr Debba, and Zawtar al-Sharqiya, occurring shortly after the Israeli forces issued evacuation warnings to nearby residents. Fortunately, as of the latest updates, there have been no reported casualties.
These military actions come in the context of a ceasefire agreement that was established nearly a year ago, ending 13 months of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. This ceasefire stipulated that Hezbollah would disarm, both parties would refrain from attacking one another, and Israel would withdraw from Lebanon, although it continues to occupy five positions within the country.
Prior to the airstrikes, an Israeli military spokesperson disclosed specific locations that would be targeted, advising residents to maintain a safe distance of at least 500 meters from these sites. The spokesperson attributed the strikes to the need to disrupt what they characterized as Hezbollah’s military infrastructure.
While Israel frequently conducts airstrikes in Lebanon, Thursday’s actions were notable for their intensity and the preceding evacuation notices. The strikes followed an open letter issued by Hezbollah to the Lebanese leadership, affirming its commitment to the ceasefire while asserting its “legitimate right” to resist Israeli presence, highlighting the ongoing tensions.
Despite expressing support for the Lebanese army, Hezbollah criticized any direct negotiations with Israel, particularly in light of recent remarks by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun suggesting dialogue. In recent days, Israeli officials have raised concerns about Hezbollah’s attempts to recover its military strength following their previous losses in confrontations with Israel.
Shosh Bedrosian, a spokesperson for the Israeli government, reiterated the country’s resolve to safeguard its borders and uphold the terms of the ceasefire agreement. Israel has made it clear that it will not permit Hezbollah to restore its military capabilities.
On the Lebanese side, the government has pledged to disarm Hezbollah and maintain a monopoly on weaponry within the state. Reports indicate that about 85% of Hezbollah’s weapon caches in southern Lebanon have been dismantled, with an ambition to achieve a complete disarmament by the end of the year. However, the government also cautions that expediting this process might lead to heightened domestic tensions.
This situation remains precarious, and the international community is closely watching as both sides navigate the fragile ceasefire and address ongoing security concerns.