An Israeli drone strike in Khiam, Lebanon, on December 12, resulted in one death and two injuries after Israeli forces withdrew. The Lebanese Armed Forces initiated their deployment in the area while civilians were advised against entry until authorized. Ongoing Israeli military actions continue to violate ceasefire agreements, leading to increasing tensions in southern Lebanon.
On December 12, an Israeli drone strike in the southern Lebanese town of Khiam resulted in one fatality and two injuries, occurring shortly after the Israeli forces had withdrawn from the area. According to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA), the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) were engaged in clearing debris to facilitate civilian access when the drone attack took place. Following this incident, the LAF initiated its deployment in Khiam but advised residents to refrain from entering until authorized by the designated authorities.
This assault followed Israel’s full withdrawal from Khiam, a key strategic location, just one day prior. The Israeli military maintains a presence in various regions of southern Lebanon, despite a ceasefire agreement enacted on November 27, which mandates a complete withdrawal within 60 days. The agreement ties into United Nations Resolution 1701, which emphasizes the disarmament of Hezbollah assets located south of the Litani River, alongside a prohibition on the influx of arms into Lebanon.
Furthermore, a United States-led tripartite oversight mechanism, involving France and UNIFIL, is monitoring compliance with the ceasefire terms. However, violations persist, with Israel engaging in numerous air assaults against Lebanese territory since the ceasefire’s implementation, which have remained largely unaccounted for in terms of international response. Notably, Hezbollah provided limited retaliation with a rocket strike, which resulted in escalated Israeli air strikes that claimed additional lives in southern Lebanon.
In recent days, Israeli military actions led to further casualties, including a deadly raid on the Debbin area, which left three individuals dead, alongside multiple instances of air strikes on December 10, targeting rescue operations in the southern regions. Hezbollah’s Secretary-General, Naim Qassem, acknowledged on December 5 that although numerous violations continue, the group is exercising patience in supporting the ceasefire’s success.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanon remains a deeply rooted geopolitical issue, exacerbated by historical skirmishes and the contentious presence of armed groups such as Hezbollah. The ceasefire enforced on November 27 was established to limit hostilities after numerous confrontations. UN Resolution 1701 plays a pivotal role in peace negotiations, mandating disarmament and the withdrawal of troops, as well as monitoring efforts by international entities. However, the situation remains tense, with incidences of conflict arising even during peace negotiations, highlighting the fragile balance in the region.
In summary, the recent drone strike on Khiam, occurring right after Israeli forces had vacated the area, underscores the ongoing volatility in southern Lebanon. Despite a ceasefire agreement intended to curtail hostilities, attacks by Israeli forces continue without accountability, resulting in civilian casualties. The LAF’s deployment and stabilization efforts, coupled with the challenging context of armed factions and international oversight, create a complex landscape that necessitates sustained diplomatic engagement.
Original Source: thecradle.co
