Tensions Escalate Despite Ceasefire Between Israel and Hezbollah
A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, which came into effect on Wednesday, is already under strain following an Israeli airstrike on a Hezbollah installation in southern Lebanon. The Lebanese army accused Israel of "repeatedly violating" the ceasefire agreement, highlighting the precarious nature of the truce that was brokered by the United States and France after over a year of hostilities.
The Israeli military confirmed the airstrike, stating it targeted a facility used by Hezbollah to store medium-range rockets. This incident marks the first airstrike since the ceasefire was established, raising concerns about the sustainability of the agreement. The Israeli army claimed it acted to thwart a perceived threat from Hezbollah and indicated that its forces would remain active in southern Lebanon to enforce the ceasefire conditions.
Casualties and Ongoing Violations
Reports from Lebanon indicate that at least two individuals were injured due to Israeli fire on Thursday, with the Lebanese army maintaining its deployment in the region. The Israeli military has stated that it opened fire on individuals violating the ceasefire by attempting to return to certain areas in southern Lebanon. This has prompted fears that the ceasefire could collapse under continued military actions from both sides.
The ceasefire agreement stipulates that Hezbollah must withdraw north of the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers from the border, while Israeli forces are expected to gradually pull back within 60 days. The situation remains tense, with both sides accusing each other of ceasefire violations, complicating the already fragile peace process.
Humanitarian Impact and Displacement
The ongoing conflict has had devastating humanitarian consequences, displacing approximately 1.2 million people in Lebanon and causing significant casualties on both sides. Over 3,760 individuals have reportedly been killed in Lebanon due to Israeli military actions, many of whom were civilians. In Israel, the conflict has resulted in over 70 deaths, including civilians and soldiers.
Despite the ceasefire, many displaced individuals began returning to their homes on Wednesday, although both the Lebanese army and Israeli military have warned against returning to certain areas due to ongoing military presence and potential dangers. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with communities on both sides of the border grappling with the aftermath of the conflict.
