South Lebanon is experiencing intensified Israeli military actions post-February 18, with recent strikes targeting Hezbollah operatives and military sites. Hezbollah has refrained from military responses, placing the onus on the Lebanese government for reconstruction. Analysts suggest this tactic aims to shield the organization from public criticism regarding its strategies and accountability.
The region of South Lebanon is experiencing significant escalation of Israeli military actions, marked by recent airstrikes since the February 18 withdrawal deadline expired. On Saturday, an airstrike targeted a vehicle, resulting in one fatality and another injury. Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee reported that a drone strike targeted a Hezbollah operative involved in rebuilding terrorist infrastructure, asserting that operations would persist to counter threats from Hezbollah.
In response to these tensions, Israeli warplanes executed numerous sorties over areas such as Nabatieh and Iqlim al-Tuffah. This followed over 20 heavy airstrikes on Friday night targeting various southern towns, including Mount Rihan and Sidon, which Israel confirmed were focused on Hezbollah military sites identified as posing a threat.
Despite the increasing military pressure, Hezbollah has opted to maintain a position of “military silence,” deflecting responsibility onto the Lebanese state. MP Hussein Hajj Hassan articulated this perspective, emphasizing that the organization aims to shield itself from criticism regarding its strategic decisions, which have led Lebanon into war.
Riad Kahwaji from the Middle East and Gulf Military Analysis Center (INEGMA) noted that Hezbollah’s strategy seems designed to divert blame toward the Lebanese government for reconstruction and withdrawal responsibilities while postponing accountability to its supporters. Kahwaji remarked that Hezbollah might later claim that retaining its weapons and leaning on limited Iranian funding is necessary for future reconstruction.
At a ceremony for a fallen fighter, MP Hussein Hajj Hassan pointed out the continued occupation and the existence of an Israeli-declared security strip along the border. He implored the government to respond to pressing public inquiries regarding the occupation and to address perceived American complicity with Israel, critiquing Washington’s role in overseeing ceasefire implementations as favoring Israeli actions.
In summary, South Lebanon has encountered intense Israeli military actions, leading Hezbollah to redirect accountability towards the Lebanese state. The ongoing operations underscore Israel’s commitment to neutralize threats while Hezbollah strives to maintain its standing amidst criticism. The political dialogue regarding accountability and strategy remains critical, especially as local leaders call for government responses to the public’s demands related to occupation and foreign complicity.
Original Source: english.aawsat.com
