On the scheduled withdrawal day, Israel killed three and injured 31 in southern Lebanon, violating a ceasefire agreement. Israeli officials claim continued Hezbollah presence necessitates their extended military engagement while Lebanon insists Israel comply with the truce. The incident underscores ongoing tensions and failure to maintain peace after prolonged conflict.
On the day Israeli forces were scheduled to withdraw from southern Lebanon under a ceasefire agreement, at least three individuals were killed and 31 others were injured. The attacks occurred as citizens attempted to return to their homes in border towns, prompting condemnation from Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health.
Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee urged residents of over 60 villages in southern Lebanon not to return, claiming operational necessity due to unresolved security issues with Hezbollah. Israel’s actions are viewed as violations of the ceasefire established in November, which stipulated a withdrawal by 02:00 GMT on Sunday.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attributed the delay to claims that Hezbollah has not sufficiently vacated the border area. Lebanon has rejected these assertions and insisted that Israel honor its commitments. Al Jazeera correspondent Zeina Khodr highlighted Israel’s argument that they must remain to facilitate the disarmament of Hezbollah, though these claims remain unverified.
The ceasefire agreement, reached through US and French mediation, was designed to foster stability after extended fighting that began with Israel’s military actions in Gaza. According to the truce, the Lebanese army was required to operate alongside UN peacekeepers while cooperating on the ground during Israel’s phased withdrawal. Hezbollah’s compliance involved withdrawing its forces northward and dismantling military facilities in southern Lebanon.
The tensions in southern Lebanon are deeply rooted in the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, exacerbated by events in Gaza that have led to a significant military presence and responses from both sides. The ceasefire agreement established parameters that were expected to promote peace and stability in the region, with international support from entities like the United States and France. However, the failure to adhere to the agreed terms has resulted in violence and poses serious questions about future collaborate efforts toward peace. The ongoing accusations from Israel regarding Hezbollah’s presence illustrate the complicated nature of security in the region, where perceptions of threat can lead to escalated hostilities.
In conclusion, the breach of the ceasefire by Israeli forces in southern Lebanon represents a significant setback for peace efforts in the region. With casualties among civilians and ongoing military tensions, there is an urgent need for adherence to the established agreements to ensure the safety and security of the local population. The international community must continue to advocate for the fulfillment of ceasefire terms to prevent further violence in an already volatile area.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
