Features|Israel attacks LebanonLebanese fear US has given green light for Israeli escalationIsrael has attacked south Lebanon dozens of times recently, as locals fear a renewed military escalation.
Beirut, Lebanon – Current tensions in Lebanon have escalated due to military activities similar to those in 2024, which resulted in significant casualties and large-scale displacement.
Beirut, Lebanon – Current tensions in Lebanon have escalated due to military activities similar to those in 2024, which resulted in significant casualties and large-scale displacement.
The increased pressure from the United States and Israel on Lebanon to disarm the Shia group Hezbollah is a significant factor. While some in Lebanon support bringing Hezbollah's weapons under state control, there are concerns that internal tensions could escalate if Israel continues its military actions.
A meeting on December 29 between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly led to discussions about a potential new offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Despite an ongoing ceasefire since November 2024, Israel has maintained frequent attacks on Lebanon.
On a recent Sunday, Israel executed approximately 25 attacks on southern Lebanon. The United Nations reports that Israel has violated the ceasefire more than 10,000 times since its inception in November 2024.
Since the conflict began in October 2023, Israel has increased its military actions, with significant strikes occurring between September and November 2024. These strikes have affected multiple regions in Lebanon, including the south, the Bekaa Valley, and Beirut's southern suburbs. The areas are predominantly inhabited by Shia Muslims, who primarily support Hezbollah.
Beirut, Lebanon – Current tensions in Lebanon have escalated due to military activities similar to those in 2024, which resulted in significant casualties and large-scale displacement.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was among those killed during these attacks. An agreed-upon ceasefire in November required Israel to withdraw its troops, and Hezbollah to retreat north of the Litani River, with the Lebanese Army deploying to the south. However, Israeli forces remain in five areas within Lebanon.
Despite the ceasefire, Israel continues its military activities against Lebanon. Hezbollah has largely refrained from military retaliation, and the Lebanese Army has reportedly dismantled some of Hezbollah's infrastructure in the south. However, Israel maintains that Hezbollah's military presence remains significant.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reports no significant signs of Hezbollah regrouping in the south. Meanwhile, there is speculation that US support is critical for Israel’s continued military operations in Lebanon.
Following a meeting in Florida, there were suggestions that the US might support Israel in intensifying its attacks should Hezbollah not be disarmed completely.
Residents in southern Lebanon have experienced ongoing uncertainty due to the persistent military actions. While some periods are calm, sporadic attacks continue to keep tensions high. Local perspectives suggest that future developments will heavily depend on international agreements, particularly those involving the United States and Israel.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
