Hezbollah Must Not Be Allowed to Destroy Lebanon
Recent clashes at the Syria-Lebanon border have marked a critical shift in the Lebanese Armed Forces’ engagement with Hezbollah. Following Syrian accusations against Hezbollah, Lebanese President Aoun ordered military retaliation, highlighting a commitment to sovereignty. The ongoing tensions signal a need for a unified Lebanese stance against Hezbollah, underpinned by a call for accountability and justice.
The recent clashes along the Syria-Lebanon border highlight a significant shift in military engagement dynamics. Following two days of violent conflict, a ceasefire was brokered, marking a departure from the historical restraint exhibited by the Lebanese Armed Forces in directly targeting Syrian positions. The conflict arose after Syria accused Hezbollah of kidnapping and executing three Syrian soldiers, initiating a response from the Lebanese military, a departure from its prior policy of containment.
In the past, the Lebanese army primarily focused on managing spillover effects from Syria’s civil war, engaging with rebel forces but rarely engaging directly with the Syrian military. However, under the command of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, the decision was made to retaliate against hostile fire sources, reinforcing the commitment to national sovereignty and security. Aoun’s proactive approach is seen as crucial in asserting control within Lebanon’s borders and addressing Hezbollah’s unchecked operations.
The tensions both within and around Lebanon remain elevated. President Aoun emphasized the necessity of a singular sovereign voice in the nation. The animosity between the new Syrian leadership and Hezbollah, which has historically supported the Assad regime, adds complexity to the situation. Hezbollah’s involvement in various war crimes during the Syrian conflict has left deep-seated resentment among the Syrian populace.
Despite the ceasefire, the volatility persists, especially given Israel’s recent airstrikes targeting Hezbollah assets in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah appears to be under increased pressure, facing dwindling operational capacity while still posing a significant threat to Lebanon’s stability. The group may currently be in decline, but the potential for destruction remains, necessitating vigilant oversight from Lebanese authorities.
The implications of unchecked Hezbollah activities extend beyond immediate border conflicts, indicating the risk of a broader conflict should local factions seek foreign alliances. Aoun is urged to garner national support in establishing a clear strategy for disarming Hezbollah, thereby reinforcing Lebanon’s sovereignty and unity.
Moreover, there exists a crucial need for accountability for those complicit in crimes during the Syrian war, echoing calls for justice that the country failed to achieve in previous years. Strengthening Lebanon’s political framework is imperative to prevent a return to violence and ensure lasting peace. The leadership’s decisive actions against Hezbollah will be essential to uphold national sovereignty and reassure citizens of their government’s commitment to stability and security.
In summary, the recent border clashes have ushered in critical developments for Lebanon’s military and political landscape. The Lebanese Armed Forces’ engagement in direct conflict signifies a shift towards asserting national sovereignty against Hezbollah’s unchecked influence. President Aoun’s leadership and the need for justice against past crimes remain central to stabilizing Lebanon and preventing further destabilization. The call for disarming Hezbollah reflects the urgency of establishing a unified sovereign force to safeguard the nation’s future.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
