Israeli Forces Escalate Demolitions in Southern Lebanon During Ceasefire

Israeli forces exploited the ceasefire to enhance demolition operations in southern Lebanon, including a significant incursion into the town of Bani Hayyan. Amidst ongoing tensions and violations of the ceasefire, the Lebanese army is mobilizing to address Hezbollah’s presence in the region, while Israeli settlers have been reported crossing the border without authorization. International parties continue monitoring the situation.

On December 18, the Israeli army took advantage of the ongoing ceasefire with Lebanon, intensifying its demolition campaign in southern Lebanon. Reports indicate that Israeli forces penetrated the town of Bani Hayyan for the first time, demolishing several properties, including a mosque. Social media platforms displayed footage of Israeli tanks and bulldozers conducting demolitions in the area. Earlier that same week, homes were also demolished in Tyre Harfa, Al-Jbeen, and Sheheen as well as in villages near the border, as reported by Lebanon’s National News Agency.

Under the ceasefire terms declared on November 27, Israeli forces are expected to withdraw from Lebanon within 60 days. In response, the Lebanese army has begun deploying across southern Lebanon to dismantle Hezbollah’s infrastructure in accordance with UN Resolution 1701. However, Israeli forces have conducted more than 100 alleged violations of this ceasefire, including airstrikes and troop advancements. Notably, an Israeli drone strike injured three individuals in Majdal Zoun the day prior.

Moreover, an unauthorized group of Israeli settlers reportedly crossed into southern Lebanon, establishing a camp in a military zone near Maroun al-Ras. The Israeli military characterized this action as dangerous and is under investigation. This incident follows a past occurrence where a researcher was killed while accompanying troops into Lebanese territory without prior approval.

In recent developments, Israeli forces claimed to have discovered and destroyed a Hezbollah tunnel used for military operations, asserting that arms were stored nearby. Concurrently, a US-led tripartite mechanism meeting was held to discuss ceasefire violations, with representatives from the US, France, Israel, Lebanon, and UNIFIL in attendance. Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed a commitment to addressing Israeli transgressions as they move forward from the conflict.

The tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have historically been marked by conflict and confrontations, particularly in southern Lebanon. The ceasefire established on November 27 is intended to halt hostilities, yet various incidents have continued to break this agreement. The Lebanese army’s role under UN Resolution 1701 is to mitigate Hezbollah’s presence and ensure stability in southern Lebanon, while Israel, facing resistance, maintains operations that have been characterized as violations of this ceasefire.

In conclusion, the Israeli army’s recent operations in southern Lebanon during a purported ceasefire have raised significant concerns regarding compliance with international agreements. The continuation of demolitions and military advancements, alongside the involvement of unauthorized settler groups, highlights the fragile state of peace in the region. The commitment of Lebanese forces to dismantle Hezbollah’s infrastructure remains critical as international parties engage in monitoring and resolving rising tensions.

Original Source: thecradle.co