What it is about
The Lebanese army has successfully entered and nearly dismantled Hezbollah’s bases north of the Litani River, as reported by the Lebanese network Al Jadeed. This move is a significant step in enforcing the ceasefire agreement established in November 2023, following a year of conflicts between Hezbollah and Israel.
Why it matters
This development marks the first time Hezbollah has yielded control of their bases north of the Litani River to the Lebanese army. The ceasefire agreement necessitated that Hezbollah vacate the southern areas, reinforcing calls for peace and security in the region. It is a meaningful stride toward reducing the influence of this Iran-backed military group, fostering stability at Israel’s northern frontier.
The Bigger Picture
The successful action by the Lebanese army comes amid internal and external pressures to disarm Hezbollah. The U.S., an ally pressing for peace in the region, has urged Lebanon to take decisive steps against Hezbollah’s armament. White House envoy Morgan Ortagus’s recent visit underscored these expectations.
The Strategic Balance
Despite the current progress, discussions around a phased approach to Hezbollah’s disarmament are ongoing. Engagement between Hezbollah and the Lebanese government remains crucial, with Hezbollah expressing its willingness to enter into discussions with President Joseph Aoun regarding national defense strategies, focusing on establishing a ceasefire with Israel following the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon.
Situational Dynamics
Under the standing ceasefire agreement, Israel retains the right to strike in instances of perceived imminent threats. Since the ceasefire’s initiation, skirmishes have continued sporadically, each side accusing the other of breaches but avoiding full-scale conflict. The ongoing strategic adjustments underscore the complexity of achieving long-lasting security solutions.
Background Context
Triggered by a provocation from allied groups like Hamas, Hezbollah’s activities on October 8, 2023, led to prolonged violence along the northern border. The escalation resulted in the evacuation of numerous Israeli citizens and sparked a response from Israel that drastically reduced Hezbollah’s command capabilities and resources. The November truce finalized this round’s hostilities, although it required comprehensive political management to sustain the peace.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.