Israel’s Army Prepares for Staying in Southern Lebanon Even Beyond Ceasefire Timeline
Beirut (Quds News Network)- The Israeli army is preparing for the possibility of extending its occupation of southern Lebanon, in violation of the 60-day ceasefire period, reported Haaretz. Military officials have justified the decision claiming that if the Lebanese Army “fails to fulfill its commitments”, including taking full control of southern Lebanon, Israeli forces will continue to occupy the area.
Thursday marks 30 days since the US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon took effect. During this period, Lebanese authorities have reported around 300 Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement. The latest violation was on Wednesday when Israel bombarded a location in the Bekaa region in eastern Lebanon. These violations resulted in the deaths of 42 Lebanese citizens, whom Israel describes as “Hezbollah operatives” although many of them are children and women.
Israel has expressed its satisfaction with the way how the ceasefire is being implemented and the US’s role. The Israeli army continues to prevent Lebanese citizens from returning to their villages in the south. Also, the construction of military outposts in southern Lebanon is underway.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati called on a cease-fire monitoring committee on Tuesday to pressure Israel to halt its violations of the agreement.
Data from the Lebanese Health Ministry indicates that since Israel’s onslaught on Lebanon began on Oct. 8, 2023, at least 4,063 people have been killed, including women, children, and health workers, while 16,663 others have been injured.
