The US's firm stance on the border issue indicates a strategic alignment with Israel's security concerns.
Hezbollah's internal divisions may hinder its ability to fully comply with the ceasefire agreement.
The ceasefire agreement reflects a complex balance of power in the region, with both military and political implications.
Ongoing IDF operations suggest that Israel is not fully relinquishing its military pressure on Hezbollah, even during the ceasefire.
The ceasefire may lead to temporary stability in southern Lebanon, but underlying tensions are likely to persist.
Hezbollah's compliance with the ceasefire could be tested by internal dissent and external pressures.
Future negotiations may revisit the issue of border corrections, depending on the evolving political landscape in Lebanon and Israel.
US Clarifies No Border Changes with Lebanon Amid Ceasefire Agreement
In a significant development regarding the ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, the United States has clarified that it does not expect any changes to the border between Israel and Lebanon. This clarification was included in a 'side letter' accompanying the recent ceasefire agreement, which was reported by Israel Hayom. The letter was a response to Lebanon's demands for discussions on 13 proposed border corrections, which Israel has historically refused to consider. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, acknowledged Hezbollah's demands in the ceasefire negotiations, leading to the inclusion of Article 11 in the agreement. Despite this, Israel secured a clear statement from the Biden administration that the border would remain unchanged, emphasizing that discussions on border revisions are merely theoretical.
Hezbollah's Withdrawal and Challenges Post-Ceasefire
As part of the ceasefire agreement, Hezbollah is required to withdraw its fighters from southern Lebanon, allowing the Lebanese armed forces to take over the region. This area, which lies between the Litani River and the Israeli border, is to be free of non-state armed actors. Hezbollah's cooperation with the Lebanese army is crucial, but internal divisions within the organization may complicate this process. Shiite MP Hassan Fadlallah has assured that Hezbollah will support the army's deployment, yet he also indicated that the group's members are deeply rooted in their local communities, making their complete withdrawal challenging. The agreement, while not public, is expected to last for sixty days, during which Hezbollah's military infrastructure will be dismantled.
IDF Operations Continue Amid Ceasefire
Despite the ceasefire, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been actively targeting Hezbollah's military capabilities. Recent airstrikes in the Da'ahia area of Beirut targeted various Hezbollah infrastructures, including military depots and command centers. IDF officials emphasized the importance of these operations for Israel's security, stating that they aim to disrupt Hezbollah's operational capabilities. The air force's coordinated attacks are part of a broader strategy to ensure that Hezbollah does not maintain military infrastructure in southern Lebanon. As the ceasefire takes effect, the IDF remains vigilant, prepared to respond to any threats against Israel.
