Fragile Calm Persists in Lebanon Despite Accusations of Ceasefire Violations

Israel and Lebanon exchanged accusations of violating a newly established ceasefire, following Israeli airstrikes targeting a Hezbollah facility in southern Lebanon. The strikes occurred on Thursday, hours after the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported firing on several areas in Lebanon, alleging violations of the ceasefire agreement. Lebanese authorities, in turn, accused Israel of multiple breaches of the truce on Wednesday and Thursday, according to Al Jazeera.

The Israeli airstrike, reportedly near Baysariyah, north of the Litani River, marked the first since the ceasefire began early Wednesday. Israeli officials stated the strike targeted militants at a Hezbollah rocket facility that had been used to fire into Israel. Following the incident, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to prepare for a potential escalation, warning of retaliation against any violations of the truce.

Meanwhile, the Lebanese Army has moved to enforce the ceasefire, deploying troops to Hezbollah strongholds in southern Lebanon and other areas. According to the military, operations are underway to dismantle checkpoints, clear unexploded ordnance, and reopen damaged roads to facilitate the return of displaced residents. In heavily affected regions near the Israeli border, many communities remain uninhabitable, with thousands still unable to return home.

The conflict, which began in October 2023, saw Hezbollah launching daily rocket attacks into northern Israel in solidarity with Hamas following the deadly October 7 assault on Israeli territory. Israel responded with airstrikes and a ground offensive, resulting in significant casualties and displacement on both sides. Over 3,800 people in Lebanon and 100 in Israel lost their lives during the...