The repeated violations of the ceasefire agreement highlight the fragile nature of peace in the region and the ongoing tensions between Israel and Lebanon.
The significant number of casualties and displacement underscores the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict, affecting thousands of families in Lebanon.
If the current trend of violations continues, the ceasefire may collapse entirely, leading to further military confrontations between Israel and Hezbollah.
Increased international pressure may arise to mediate and restore peace in the region as civilian casualties continue to rise.
Escalating Tensions: Israeli Violations of Ceasefire Agreement with Lebanon
On December 26, 2024, the Israeli army reported seven new violations of the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon, bringing the total to 302 since the agreement was enacted on November 27, 2024. According to the official Lebanese News Agency, these violations have resulted in the deaths of 32 individuals and injuries to 38 others. The latest incidents included low-altitude drone flights over southern suburbs and airstrikes in the Baalbek district, where Israeli warplanes targeted a house in Taraya without causing casualties.
In the Bint Jbeil district, Israeli soldiers set fire to a house in Maroun al-Ras while simultaneously firing heavy machine guns into residential neighborhoods, leading to significant material damage. Additionally, a bombing operation in the Marjeyoun district targeted homes in Kfar Kila, prompting widespread condemnation from local authorities and residents. The ongoing Israeli military activities, including intensive flights of warplanes and drones, continue to threaten the fragile ceasefire.
Ceasefire Agreement Under Strain
The ceasefire agreement, which was intended to halt weeks of mutual shelling, outlines a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces to the south of the Blue Line within 60 days. The Lebanese army is tasked with maintaining security in the region, dismantling Hezbollah's military infrastructure, and confiscating unlicensed weapons. The Blue Line, established by the United Nations, serves as a temporary boundary to verify Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon since 2000.
In response to the violations, Hezbollah launched a missile attack on the
Ruwaisat al-Alam
- The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with a reported 4,063 Lebanese fatalities, including many women and children, and over 16,663 injuries. The recent escalation has also displaced approximately 1.4 million people, primarily during the heightened tensions in September.