Israel launches airstrikes in Lebanon, ceasefire with Hezbollah in doubt

Israel launched fresh airstrikes in Lebanon on Tuesday despite an uneasy ceasefire with Hezbollah. It said its military targeted a “terrorist cell” in the Bekaa region, as accusations of ceasefire violations mount against both sides.

But despite the ceasefire with Hezbollah stopping full-scale warfare, skirmishes continue. Israel has carried out several operations within Lebanon, while there have been retaliatory attacks from the militants. Both sides accuse each other of breaking the truce negotiated between the U.S. and France.

Hezbollah Ceasefire Tensions Increase

Lebanese Speaker Nabih Berri, who has mediated in contacts with Hezbollah, accused Israel of violating the ceasefire more than 50 times since it took effect on November 27. Israeli officials deny the charges, but continue to carry out military activities in Lebanon and Syria. There are reports of another apparent Israeli strike targeting an area near Damascus airport.

Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz warned in no uncertain terms. In case of the collapse of the ceasefire with Hezbollah, he threatened that Israel would not distinguish between Lebanese forces and operatives from Hezbollah. This is a radical departure from the earlier stance of Israel, which limited itself to the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.

Future of Ceasefire with Hezbollah in Doubt

Katz called on Lebanon to send in its army to impose the truce. He demanded that Hezbollah be removed from areas south of the Litani River and that its military infrastructure be dismantled. If Lebanon does nothing, Katz threatened, Israel would consider the Lebanese state an enemy and attack Beirut in its entirety.

The ceasefire agreement requires the withdrawal of Israeli forces south of the Blue Line, while Hezbollah has to retreat north of the Litani River within 60 days. Lebanese forces are expected to control the vacated southern regions to prevent Hezbollah’s return. However, ongoing clashes and violations suggest the fragile truce may collapse entirely.