Israeli Drone Strike in Southern Lebanon Underscores Ceasefire Violations
An Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon killed one person, reigniting tensions amidst a fragile ceasefire with Hezbollah. Although an initial withdrawal of Israeli forces was planned, violations of ceasefire terms continue. Lebanese officials have condemned these actions, asserting the need for international mediation to preserve Lebanese sovereignty and halt further Israeli incursions.
An Israeli drone strike in the southern Lebanese town of Rashkananya resulted in the death of one individual. The strike targeted a parked vehicle adjacent to a residential building, leading to significant destruction as depicted in images released by the Lebanese National News Agency (NNA). This incident unfolds against a precarious ceasefire established between Hezbollah and Israel on November 27, 2024, which had briefly halted intense hostilities in the region.
Following over a year of conflict, including a two-month war that involved the invasion of southern Lebanon, Israeli strikes have persisted. The Israeli military reported targeting a Hezbollah observation post on February 27, despite an agreement to withdraw from southern Lebanese territory, initially set for January 26. This withdrawal was subsequently extended to February 18, yet Israel indicated it would maintain a temporary presence in strategic locations along the border, violating ceasefire terms.
Lebanese leaders, including Parliament Speaker Nabih Mustafa Berri, expressed their concerns regarding Israel’s continued occupation and the establishment of a so-called “buffer zone” within Lebanese territory. Berri emphasized that Lebanon will not permit Israeli impositions to alter the current situation and has solicited the international community’s assistance in halting violations of Lebanese sovereignty. He pointedly remarked, “Lebanon will not accept any attempts to trade aid for political or military conditions.”
Additionally, Berri criticized Israel’s interventions in neighboring countries, particularly Syria, asserting that Israel manipulates demographics to favor specific groups. Recent escalations by Israel in the Golan Heights have elicited condemnation from both the United Nations and various Arab nations. Furthermore, the UN has deemed Israel’s incomplete withdrawal from southern Lebanon a breach of both the ceasefire agreement and UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
The Israeli drone strike in Lebanon illustrates ongoing tensions and lapses in the recently established ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. Despite the agreements in place, Israel’s continued military presence and actions raise significant concerns among Lebanese officials and the international community. With calls for intervention from leaders like Nabih Mustafa Berri, the situation remains precarious as Lebanon seeks to preserve its sovereignty and address Israeli transgressions.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
