Israel has launched airstrikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, targeting weapons facilities following the appointment of Brigadier General Rodolphe Haykal, tasked with implementing UN Resolution 1701. The Lebanese Army is expanding its forces amid ongoing border disputes and military recommendations to tackle Hezbollah’s armament storage.
On Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted airstrikes targeting Hezbollah’s weapons production and storage facilities located in the Beqaa Valley. The IDF asserted its commitment to continue these military operations to eliminate any potential threats to the State of Israel. Additional reports indicated that Israeli incursions extended to areas adjacent to the Lebanese border with Syria.
This escalation follows the announcement of Brigadier General Rodolphe Haykal as the new commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces by the Beirut Government. He is tasked with implementing UN Resolution 1701 and overseeing the deployment of Lebanese troops in the southern region. Previously, General Haykal held command in an area south of the Litani River, where Hezbollah presence is notable.
In related developments, the Lebanese government has approved the conscription of 4,500 new soldiers. Hezbollah-aligned media reported that Lebanon’s Defense Minister, Michel Menassa, will propose an annual increase of 1,500 soldiers over the next three years to address military manpower shortages while expanding authority in Southern Lebanon.
Moreover, the Lebanese Armed Forces are expected to take an integral role in teams formed to negotiate border disputes with Israel. According to Al Akhbar, the Lebanese government anticipates input from the United States and France regarding team composition and coordination, favoring military personnel with technical expertise over civilians.
In a significant recommendation from the chairman of the ceasefire agreement oversight commission, the Lebanese army has been urged to proceed with raids on Hezbollah’s armaments stored north of the Litani River, emphasizing the ongoing tension in the region.
The recent Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah’s facilities and the appointment of Brigadier General Rodolphe Haykal signify escalating military tensions in the region. The Lebanese government’s plans to bolster its military personnel and the anticipated involvement of the armed forces in border negotiations exemplify the complexities of the security landscape. These developments indicate a heightened focus on addressing both national defense and diplomatic efforts amid ongoing hostilities.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
