Rising tensions between Israel and Lebanon threaten ceasefire agreement

Escalating Violence in Southern Lebanon

Fears have been raised following recent Israeli air raids and artillery shelling deep into Lebanese territory, which have resulted in civilian casualties. Israel’s military claimed it targeted Hezbollah weapon sites after missile projectiles were launched from southern Lebanon into the Israeli Galilee area for the first time in months. In response, Hezbollah denied any involvement in the rocket attacks, stating it was committed to maintaining the ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States on November 27th, under the Biden administration’s mediation.

Despite Hezbollah's denial, Israel’s military response has escalated tensions. The group emphasized that it continues to abide by the terms of the ceasefire, which included an agreement to cease hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. However, Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji has voiced strong disapproval of Hezbollah’s actions. Rajji, who represents the Lebanese Forces, has repeatedly blamed Hezbollah for the conflict with Israel, which has led to significant destruction, human loss, and Israeli occupation of southern Lebanon.

Lebanese Foreign Minister's Criticism of Hezbollah

In an interview with France24, Rajji said, “We must remember who brought about the Israeli ground invasion of south Lebanon and who caused the destruction and the human losses.” He went on to criticize Hezbollah for violating the terms of the ceasefire agreement, which stipulates that the Lebanese government should be the sole authority bearing arms. Rajji noted that this provision had yet to be implemented, with Hezbollah continuing to retain its weapons. He also called for Hezbollah to surrender its arms to the Lebanese state and allow the Lebanese Army to carry out its national duties without interference.

These remarks are not new. Rajji has previously condemned Hezbollah for contributing to the conflict and complicating Lebanon’s ability to maintain peace. His calls for disarmament reflect ongoing tensions between the Lebanese government and Hezbollah, with the latter’s actions seen as undermining Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability.

The Role of the United Nations in Monitoring the Situation

The United Nations has also expressed concern about the escalating violence. UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenetti spoke to ANEWZ about the growing hostilities in southern Lebanon, highlighting the increasing military actions by Israel, including airstrikes, the use of drones, and their continued presence in Lebanese territory. He described the situation as “concerning,” noting that Israel had significantly reduced its number of troops in southern Lebanon but had maintained a strategic presence in five border areas.

Israel’s Continued Presence in Southern Lebanon

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that Israel would maintain its positions in southern Lebanon, stating that the military would remain stationed in these areas to secure Israel’s northern border. According to Tenetti, Israel’s continued military presence in southern Lebanon and its recent strikes violate UN Resolution 1701, which aims to establish a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah and ensure Lebanese sovereignty.

Tenetti elaborated on the situation, emphasizing the dangers of the recent escalation. He explained, “Israel’s actions are a violation of UN resolution 1701 and Lebanese sovereignty. We have seen this situation for the past few weeks. The recent strikes by Israel can jeopardize the stability we have experienced in the last several months since the understanding was agreed upon on November 27th.” He further warned that the ceasefire agreement, which had been relatively stable since November, was now at serious risk of breaking.

UNIFIL’s Role and the Risk of Further Escalation

UNIFIL has been in close contact with both Israeli and Lebanese authorities to mitigate tensions and prevent further escalation. Despite the recent flare-up, Tenetti emphasized that the peacekeeping force had not observed any violations from the Lebanese side, although weapons had been discovered in southern Lebanon. He warned that the situation was dangerously close to breaking the ceasefire, which could potentially trigger a wider conflict. “The recent strikes by Israel can jeopardize the stability we have experienced,” Tenetti said, pointing to the growing risk of war in the region.

A Fragile Peace at Risk

The current tensions underscore the fragile nature of peace in the region, where the interests of multiple actors, including Hezbollah, the Lebanese government, Israel, and international peacekeeping forces, collide. The situation remains precarious, with the possibility of renewed hostilities hanging in the balance. The international community’s role in mediating the situation, particularly the efforts of the United States and the United Nations, will be crucial in determining whether the ceasefire agreement can hold or whether the region will be drawn into further violence.

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