Approximately 250 Haredi Jews entered Lebanon under Israeli military protection to visit the Al-Ibad tomb, a site of contention between Muslims and Jews. This visit occurred amid ongoing disputes regarding Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon, which Lebanese officials regard as a violation of sovereignty and a threat to regional stability. Recent confrontations along the border highlight persistent tensions in the area.
In a contentious display of religious devotion, approximately 250 Haredi Jews entered Lebanese territory to visit the Al-Ibad tomb in the village of Houla, under the protection of the Israeli army. This tomb holds religious significance for both Muslims, who believe it contains the remains of Sheikh Al-Ibad, and Jews, who consider it the burial place of Rabbi Rav Ashi, leading to ongoing disputes over its identity and ownership.
The Al-Ibad Hill is among five locations still occupied by Israeli forces following their withdrawal from Lebanon per the ceasefire agreement. Lebanon has persistently requested the removal of Israeli troops from these strategic hills. The visit was visually documented and shared across social media platforms, coinciding with the anniversary of the birth and death of Prophet Moses per the Jewish calendar.
The Israeli army had reportedly prepared for the Jewish pilgrims’ visit to the shrine after extremist groups undertook restoration efforts there. Since 1972, the Israeli government has designated this site as a Jewish shrine, allowing small groups to visit under military protection. Access to the site ceased during the July 2006 war.
During a recent extraordinary Arab summit in Cairo, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun discussed with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres the presence of Israeli forces in several Lebanese hills, highlighting this as an impediment to regional stability and the enforcement of UN Resolution 1701. Guterres noted his surprise at the ongoing Israeli military presence in the region, stating it does not support stability.
Aoun also consulted with Lebanese parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri regarding southern developments and the deployment of the Lebanese army in these areas. Concurrently, incidents have arisen where Israeli forces fired upon Lebanese citizens near Kafr Kila, injuring three individuals. The Lebanese Army condemned these violations, asserting that Israeli actions breach national sovereignty and threaten stability in the region.
This recent entry of Haredi Jews into Lebanon under Israeli military protection has further complicated the already tense relations between Lebanon and Israel. It highlights ongoing disputes over territorial sovereignty and religious significance. Additionally, the activities and statements made by Lebanese officials emphasize the pressing need for resolution and adherence to ceasefire agreements to ensure stability in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
