The Lebanese military, alongside UNIFIL, has entered Chamaa following the withdrawal of Israeli forces, part of a broader ceasefire implementation. Israeli troops continue operations in the region, risking civilian safety, while French ministers visit to support peacekeeping efforts. The situation remains tense with ongoing military actions despite the ceasefire agreement.
The Lebanese Armed Forces, accompanied by UNIFIL, have entered Chamaa for the first time since the ceasefire was enforced over a month ago, following the retreat of Israeli forces from the area. Israeli troops had advanced into multiple towns and villages during their operations, yet some remain stationed in certain locations, reportedly demolishing structures it associates with Hezbollah. Despite a total of 35 days since the ceasefire, Israeli forces have begun a gradual withdrawal, with an official timeline requiring completion within 25 days, during which the Lebanese military aims to restore order and eliminate illegal armaments as outlined in Resolution 1701.
In addition to securing Chamaa, Lebanese engineering units are charged with removing unexploded ordnance and evaluating the area’s safety before permanent deployment. Recent operations included the Lebanese military’s successful entry into Khiam, where they worked to dismantle arms caches and declared the intent that only the Lebanese Army should wield weapons in the area. Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee continues to caution residents of southern Lebanon against returning to their homes, warning that doing so would expose them to risks.
Shifting dynamics have seen the Israeli military maintain artillery bombardments of the border regions, further complicating the situation. The incident involving Charbel Choufani, who was shot while trying to access his farm, underscores the ongoing tension. Concurrently, French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu and Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot have been visiting southern Lebanon, engaging with military leaders and observing UNIFIL operations, as they prepare to attend a memorial for a fallen peacekeeper. The ministers are cultivating diplomatic relations while assessing the security situation in the region.
The ongoing Israeli-Lebanese tensions, exacerbated by the recent conflict, have resulted in a complex security landscape along the Lebanese-Israeli border. The ceasefire, intended to mitigate violence and stabilize the region, has seen varying compliance from both sides. The Lebanese Armed Forces and UNIFIL have been active in restoring peace and security, while Israeli military actions continue to raise concerns about civilian safety. The geopolitical dynamics influenced by foreign military involvement, such as French diplomatic engagement, further add layers to the existing tensions.
In summary, the entry of the Lebanese military into Chamaa marks a significant development following Israeli troop withdrawals under the ceasefire agreement. Despite ongoing risks and tensions, efforts are being made to ensure the security and safety of the region. The situation remains fluid, with international diplomatic engagement aiming to stabilize and support the Lebanese military’s objectives of disarmament and security restoration. Continued monitoring of Israeli military actions and the safety of civilians is essential in the weeks ahead.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
