Hezbollah's Commitment to Strengthening Lebanese Army Deployment
Hezbollah MP Hassan Fadlallah confirmed on November 27, 2024, that the group is fully cooperating with the Lebanese state to enhance the army's deployment in southern Lebanon, in line with the ceasefire agreement with Israel. This agreement, which took effect following a year of escalating conflict, aims to stabilize the region after a two-month confrontation that began on October 8, 2023. Fadlallah emphasized that the withdrawal of Hezbollah fighters to the north of the Litani River is contingent upon the Lebanese state's measures to bolster army presence in the area.
Context of the Ceasefire Agreement
The ceasefire, announced by US President Joe Biden, is designed to end hostilities that erupted after Hezbollah opened a “support front” for Gaza amid the Israeli war. Thousands of Lebanese citizens have begun returning to their homes in southern Lebanon as the agreement is implemented. Fadlallah reassured that Hezbollah has no visible military presence in the south, stating, “There are no bases for the resistance or any visible weapons.” He highlighted that the group’s members are local residents, indicating a deep-rooted connection to the communities in the region.
Future Implications and Security Concerns
Fadlallah also addressed the ongoing tensions with Israel, asserting that Hezbollah is prepared to respond if the ceasefire is violated. He reiterated the right to self-defense as outlined in UN Resolution 1701, which prohibits military presence in the border area except for the Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers. Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced plans to strengthen the army's presence in the south, urging Israel to comply with the truce. The agreement mandates a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon and the removal of Hezbollah's heavy weapons from the southern region, allowing Lebanese security forces to take control.
