The Lebanese army issued a strong condemnation on Friday regarding Israel’s recent airstrikes on areas in southern Beirut. This military action, which targeted buildings allegedly used by Hezbollah for drone production, has raised concerns about the potential weakening of Lebanon’s armed forces and their ongoing cooperation with the monitoring committee that oversees the ceasefire established after the Israel-Hezbollah war.
The Israeli military carried out airstrikes shortly before the Eid al-Adha holiday, indicating an escalation in hostilities since the war’s end in November 2023. In its statement, the Lebanese army highlighted efforts to coordinate with the ceasefire committee, which includes representatives from Lebanon, Israel, France, the U.S., and the U.N. peacekeeping forces known as UNIFIL. However, they noted that Israel rejected these cooperative efforts, claiming such violations threaten the stability and authority of the ceasefire monitoring committee.
Since the conclusion of the war, Israel has reportedly conducted almost daily airstrikes on Lebanese territory, primarily targeting Hezbollah operatives. The conflict resumed in October 2023 when Hezbollah began launching rockets into Israel in solidarity with Hamas during the Gaza conflict. This back-and-forth has led to significant casualties, with over 4,000 people losing their lives in Lebanon alone, including many civilians.
Despite pressure from various entities to disarm, Hezbollah officials have insisted they will maintain their arsenal until Israel halts its airstrikes and vacates areas it occupies along the Lebanese border. In a notable development, Hezbollah claims to have withdrawn its military presence south of the Litani River, adhering to the ceasefire agreement’s terms.
The situation remains tense, with the threat of further escalation looming as both sides navigate the fragile peace that followed a prolonged and deadly conflict.
This persistent conflict highlights the ongoing strain between the Lebanese armed forces and Israel, as well as the broader implications for regional stability. As tensions mount, international diplomatic efforts may be crucial in preventing further violence and fostering a more lasting peace in the area.