On December 18, Israeli forces exploited a ceasefire with Lebanon to demolish homes and infrastructure in southern towns, escalating tensions in the region. This follows numerous violations of the ceasefire agreement, prompting international concern and oversight. Concurrently, Lebanon’s military is working to dismantle Hezbollah’s presence in the area, as recent Israeli military actions have been met with governmental condemnation.
On December 18, Israeli military forces exploited the established ceasefire with Lebanon to conduct further demolitions in southern Lebanese towns such as Bani Hayyan and Tyre Harfa. Reports indicate that Israeli tanks and bulldozers pushed into these areas, destroying homes and infrastructure, including mosque walls, while publicly accessible social media contained visual evidence of these actions. This escalation occurred on the brink of required withdrawal from Lebanon, following the ceasefire announcement on November 27, as stipulated by UN Resolution 1701.
Israeli operations in the region have reportedly violated the ceasefire agreement over 100 times, marked by significant airstrikes and military advancements against Hezbollah. Just one day prior to the demolitions, an Israeli drone strike injured three individuals in Majdal Zoun. Furthermore, an unauthorized incursion by an extremist settler group near Maroun al-Ras was reported, raising concerns about safety and the potential for further conflict along the border.
Such military actions come in contrast to Lebanon’s intent to fulfill its ceasefire obligations by deploying troops to dismantle Hezbollah’s infrastructure in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military found and destroyed a significant Hezbollah tunnel in recent days, alleging it had been used for launching attacks against Israel. Multinational meetings to oversee ceasefire adherence have been convened, amid calls from Lebanese officials to cease the violations, as indicated by caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati.
The article discusses ongoing tensions between Israel and Lebanon following a ceasefire that was announced to halt hostilities between Israeli military forces and Hezbollah. Ground operations initiated in October had led to significant destruction and military confrontations. The ceasefire agreement, communicated on November 27 and governed by UN Resolution 1701, mandates a withdrawal of hostilities within a designated timeframe. However, reports suggest that Israel has violated the ceasefire multiple times, prompting international oversight and interventions to ensure peace in the volatile region.
In summary, the Israeli military’s actions during the ceasefire period raise significant concerns regarding compliance with the agreed terms. The continuation of demolitions and military incursions into Lebanese territory contradict efforts to stabilize the region and may exacerbate tensions further. The Lebanese military’s deployment aims to counteract Hezbollah’s position, and the situation is being monitored by international observers, highlighting the fragile state of peace in southern Lebanon.
Original Source: thecradle.co
