Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has threatened to escalate military actions in Lebanon if the ceasefire with Hezbollah fails to hold. Despite a recent truce, violence continues, prompting Lebanon to seek intervention from the U.S. and France. Katz indicated that future military actions would not spare the Lebanese state, while the monitoring of the ceasefire remains in limbo due to ongoing Israeli strikes.
On Tuesday, the Israeli Defence Minister, Israel Katz, issued a stern warning regarding the continuation of hostilities in Lebanon should the ceasefire with Hezbollah fail. Following a recent truce aimed at ending over a year of conflict, Israeli forces have reportedly persisted in their strikes, targeting Hezbollah militants who are allegedly breaching the ceasefire. Katz emphasized that if warfare resumes, it would involve deeper incursions into Lebanon and noted that the Lebanese government would be held accountable for the actions of Hezbollah. He asserted, “If we return to war, we will act strongly… there will no longer be an exemption for the state of Lebanon.”
Despite an official ceasefire that commenced on November 27, hostilities have continued, leading to civilian casualties and Lebanese calls for intervention from the United States and France. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri have sought diplomatic pressure on Israel to adhere to the terms of the truce. The situation remains precarious as the Lebanese army prepares to bolster its presence near the Litani River, amidst ongoing fears of further escalation.
There are ongoing international efforts to monitor and verify the ceasefire; however, progress has been limited. Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, Nabih Berri, has urged swift action from the monitoring mission to address Israel’s alleged violations. As negotiations and diplomatic channels remain active, the situation in the region continues to evolve amid tensions surrounding the fragile ceasefire.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has a long-standing history, marked by numerous escalations and ceasefires. The recent truce, established after 14 months of warfare, represents a critical attempt to stabilize the region. However, incidents of violence have persisted, raising concerns over the truce’s viability. The Lebanese government, under increasing pressure, seeks to enforce its agreements with both Hezbollah and Israel while balancing its military presence. Meanwhile, international entities, including the United States and France, are involved in efforts to mitigate tensions and ensure compliance with the ceasefire agreement.
In conclusion, the fragile truce between Israel and Hezbollah faces significant challenges as both sides navigate violations and escalating hostilities. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has made clear that any resumption of warfare would involve a comprehensive approach aimed at the Lebanese state. Concurrently, Lebanon is seeking international support to hold Israel accountable for its actions. The international monitoring mission has yet to be activated, raising concerns about the effectiveness of ongoing diplomatic efforts. The situation in southern Lebanon remains precarious, with the potential for further conflict as both sides prepare for possible escalation.
Original Source: www.cbc.ca
