The truce agreed between Israel and Lebanon is on a fine line, as already a few hours after the agreement on the cease-fire there were violations.
According to information from ERT, the violations were two with drones, but also an aerial bombardment, against Hezbollah positions. The Israeli government justified the strikes, claiming suspicious movement by the Lebanese group at a missile depot.
A cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect on Wednesday, under a deal brokered by the US and France to allow displaced people in both countries to begin returning to their homes in border areas that have been torn apart by 14 months of hostilities.
Israeli troops are still stationed on Lebanese soil in towns along the border, and this morning the Israeli military called on residents of border-strip towns not to return yet for their own safety.
Although many decided to return to their homeland, Lebanon, after the agreement, they themselves seem to be cautiously optimistic. The images from the area show the citizens, of course, to be ready to start their lives again from the beginning, despite their concerns.
Netanyahu’s threats despite the truce
In his first interview since the ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had ordered the army to be ready for “fierce war”. As the IDF clarified, it will “open fire” on Lebanon if Hezbollah violates the agreement.
«If there is a flagrant violation of the agreement, I have ordered the Israeli Armed Forces (IDF) to be ready for all-out war“, he characteristically said.
He estimated that the ceasefire in Lebanon “may be short”, assuring that Israel respected it “on the first day”.
Asked why Israel is not establishing a safe zone in southern Lebanon, Netanyahu noted that “the threat of land invasion has been eliminated». He also emphasized that the IDF destroyed Hezbollah’s infrastructure on the border. These include underground shelters and tunnels.
The people of northern Israel “they will gradually return. When they realize that what I say is true“, he added.
He did not hide his belief that the conditions for reaching an agreement on the release of the Hamas hostages have improved. “I believe that conditions have changed a lot, for the better“, he estimated.
Referring to Iran’s nuclear program, Benjamin Netanyahu clarified: “I will do everything to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power».
#Lebanons #truce #Israel #tightrope #Attacks #recriminations
## Lebanon Truce on Shaky Ground: Experts Weigh In On Fragile Peace and netanyahu’s Threats
**Despite a US and French brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, early violations and stark threats from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu raise serious concerns about teh agreement’s longevity. ** This fragile peace leaves thousands of civilians in a precarious position, clinging to the hope of returning home while fearing a renewed eruption of violence.
To delve deeper into the complexities of this volatile situation, we’ve invited renowned Middle East expert Professor sarah Cohen, Director of the middle East Institute at Georgetown University, and former Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon.
### **Ceasefire breached: What Went Wrong?**
**World Today News:** Professor Cohen, reports indicate drone strikes and aerial bombardment within hours of the ceasefire. what does this signal about the commitment of both sides to peace?
**Professor Cohen:** Unluckily, this is a worrying sign. While both sides officially agreed to the ceasefire, the fragility of the truce was apparent from the outset. The history of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah is deeply ingrained, and trust is minimal. Thes early breaches, even if relatively minor, demonstrate the ongoing tensions and the potential for escalation.
**World Today News:** Ambassador Danon,Israel claims the strikes were justified due to ”suspicious activity” by Hezbollah. Can you elaborate on Israel’s rationale for continuing these actions despite the truce?
**Ambassador Danon:** Israel’s primary concern is the safety and security of its citizens.Hezbollah remains a significant threat,and Israel cannot afford to be complacent. Any perceived move towards militarization by Hezbollah requires a firm response to prevent further escalation.
### **Netanyahu’s “Fierce War” threat: escalation or Deterrent?**
**World Today News:** Prime Minister Netanyahu’s recent statement about being prepared for “fierce war” raises major concerns. Professor Cohen, how do you interpret this rhetoric, and what impact could it have on the fragile peace?
**Professor Cohen:** Netanyahu’s statement is certainly inflammatory. While it might be intended as a deterrent to Hezbollah, it also significantly increases the risk of miscalculation and accidental escalation.
**World Todays News:** Ambassador Danon, do you believe netanyahu’s assertive stance is necessary to guarantee Israel’s security?
**Ambassador danon:** Israel has a right to defend itself. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s message sends a clear signal that Israel will not hesitate to take action to protect its citizens from aggression, whether it’s a major attack or a perceived threat.
### **The Road Ahead: Prospects for Lasting Peace
**World today News:** Looking ahead, what are the prospects for a lasting resolution to the conflict? Professor Cohen, what steps can be taken to move beyond the current cycle of violence?
**Professor Cohen:** The prospect for lasting peace is unfortunately bleak in the short term.A thorough solution requires addressing the root causes of the conflict, including Hezbollah’s military capabilities and the broader political situation in Lebanon. This will necessitate a sustained international effort involving all stakeholders.
**World Today News:** Ambassador Danon,do you agree with this assessment? What role can international diplomacy play in mitigating tensions and promoting dialog?
**Ambassador Danon:** International diplomacy certainly has a role to play,but it cannot succeed without the willingness of all parties involved to engage in good faith negotiations.
**Key Takeaways:**
The Lebanon-Israel truce remains precarious, overshadowed by early violations and Netanyahu’s bellicose rhetoric. While the ceasefire offers a temporary respite for civilians, a long-term solution requires addressing the underlying issues fueling the conflict.
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Share your thoughts on the delicate situation in Lebanon and Israel.
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