The strategic military positioning of Lebanon reflects a calculated response to ongoing tensions with Israel, particularly in light of recent conflicts in Gaza.
The cooperation between Hezbollah and the Lebanese army indicates a unified front in addressing security concerns along the Israeli border, which may influence future negotiations and peace efforts in the region.
The involvement of international forces, particularly UNIFIL, suggests a complex dynamic where local and international interests intersect in maintaining stability in southern Lebanon.
If the Lebanese army successfully deploys as planned, it could lead to a reduction in hostilities along the border, contingent on Israel's response to these developments.
Increased cooperation between Hezbollah and the Lebanese government may strengthen Lebanon's military capabilities, potentially altering the balance of power in the region.
The ongoing monitoring by international parties, including the United States and France, may play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with the ceasefire and preventing further escalations.
Military expert Brigadier General Elias Hanna has emphasized that Lebanon is taking significant steps to position itself strategically in relation to Israel. He noted that the Israeli military is currently stationed in key areas of southern Lebanon, including Labbouneh, Shamaa, Aita al-Shaab, Maroun al-Ras, and Deir Mimas, which are crucial to Hezbollah's operations. The deployment of 20,000 soldiers, split between the Lebanese army and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), along a 1,000-kilometer border signifies a serious commitment to the agreement reached between the parties involved.
Hanna highlighted that the Lebanese army's deployment will begin from the north of the Litani River, moving towards the locations of Israeli forces along the Blue Line. This strategy aims to demonstrate to the United States that Lebanon is fulfilling its obligations under the agreement, thereby prompting Israel to reciprocate. He also pointed out that Hezbollah has expressed its commitment to the full implementation of UN Resolution 1701, which governs the ceasefire and military engagement in the region.
The recent truce, announced by US President Joe Biden, is intended to halt the ongoing conflict that escalated on October 8, 2023, following Hezbollah's declaration of a support front for Gaza amid the Israeli war. Hezbollah MP Hassan Fadlallah confirmed the group's cooperation with the Lebanese state to enhance military deployment in southern Lebanon as part of the ceasefire agreement.
