Israel Strikes Hezbollah in Lebanon on Ceasefire Anniversary

The Israeli military launched a series of strikes on Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon on November 27, 2024, marking one year since the ceasefire agreement between the two parties. The strikes targeted areas around Al-Mahmoudiya and Al-Jarmak, located just north of the Litani River, according to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency. This ceasefire was intended to halt over a year of hostilities, but Israel has continued its military operations, citing the need to dismantle Hezbollah’s military capabilities.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam described the situation as a “one-sided war of attrition that is escalating.” Following the strikes, the Israeli military issued a statement claiming it had “struck and dismantled Hezbollah terror infrastructure in several areas in southern Lebanon.” The military noted it had targeted “launch sites where Hezbollah weapons were stored,” as well as military posts and a weapons storage facility. Israel emphasized its commitment to “remove any threat to the State of Israel” through these operations.

Despite the ceasefire, the Israeli military reported conducting approximately 1,200 targeted activities over the past year, resulting in the elimination of more than 370 terrorists from Hezbollah, Hamas, and other Palestinian groups. The military’s ongoing efforts focus on preventing Hezbollah from rearming and rebuilding its infrastructure.

Ceasefire Violations and International Pressure

The ceasefire agreement stipulated that Hezbollah would withdraw its forces north of the Litani River and dismantle its military infrastructure in the region. Under a government-sanctioned plan, the Lebanese army is expected to complete the dismantling of Hezbollah’s military presence south of the river by the end of the year. The United States has increased its pressure on the Lebanese government to disarm Hezbollah, accusing authorities of stalling the process.

In response to the claims from Israel, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun rejected the accusations, asserting that the Lebanese army is actively working to prevent armed displays, confiscate ammunition, and inspect tunnels. On the same day as the strikes, Aoun met with Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, the United Nations’ special coordinator for Lebanon, who highlighted ongoing uncertainties a year after the ceasefire. She noted that for many Lebanese, the conflict persists at a lower intensity, suggesting that without a resolution, the potential for future hostilities remains.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that calm in Lebanon would only be achievable if Israel’s security is guaranteed. Tensions escalated further following an Israeli strike on Beirut’s southern suburbs that resulted in the death of Haitham Ali Tabatabai, a prominent Hezbollah commander, marking a significant incident since the ceasefire.

Prime Minister Salam criticized Hezbollah’s narrative that its armaments serve as a deterrent against Israeli aggression. He questioned the effectiveness of these weapons, stating, “These weapons did not protect either Hezbollah’s leaders or the Lebanese people and their property.” He added that the arms have failed to provide either deterrence or protection during ongoing Israeli attacks.

The situation remains tense as both Israel and Hezbollah continue to engage in military actions, raising concerns about the stability of the region and the future of Lebanese sovereignty. As the year since the ceasefire passes, the international community watches closely for any signs of escalation or potential avenues for peace.