Israel and Lebanon on Brink of War as Rocket Fire Exchanges Across Border
Tensions Rise as Ceasefire Falters
BEIRUT/JERUSALEM: Israeli artillery and airstrikes hit southern Lebanon on Saturday after Israel claimed to have intercepted rockets fired from across the border, putting a shaky truce between Israel and Lebanese armed group Hezbollah in jeopardy.
Background to the Conflict
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah marked the deadliest spillover of the Gaza war, rumbling across the border for months before a blistering Israeli offensive that wiped out Hezbollah’s top commanders, many of its fighters, and much of its arsenal.
New Rocket Fire
Hezbollah denied responsibility for Saturday’s rocket launches, stating it had "no link" to the attacks and remained committed to the ceasefire. No group claimed responsibility for the attack. An Israeli official said the identity of the group that fired the rockets was still unconfirmed, with six rockets launched, three of which crossed into Israel and were intercepted.
Retaliation and Escalation
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to "act forcefully against dozens of terror targets in Lebanon." Israel’s military struck dozens of Hezbollah rocket launchers and a command center in southern Lebanon, while Lebanon’s state news agency reported a spate of Israeli airstrikes and artillery barrages in the country’s south.
Casualties and Damage
Two people were killed and eight wounded by Israeli airstrikes in the south near the border, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. There were no reports of casualties in Israel. In Gaza, health authorities reported five Palestinians killed by Israeli fire, including a child, in incidents in Beit Lahiya and Gaza City.
UN Concerns
The United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon, UNIFIL, expressed alarm at the border violence, warning that further escalation could have serious consequences for the region.
Lebanese Government Response
President Joseph Aoun ordered the Lebanese army to secure "any violation" that could threaten stability in Lebanon, while the army reported finding and dismantling three "primitive rocket launchers" in the south. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam warned of a renewal of military operations in the south of Lebanon, emphasizing the need for security and military measures to demonstrate Lebanon’s commitment to matters of war and peace.
Conclusion
The situation on the border is volatile, with both sides accusing each other of failing to implement the ceasefire agreement. The conflict has the potential to escalate into a full-blown war, with far-reaching consequences for the region. It is essential for both sides to exercise restraint and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the background to the conflict between Israel and Lebanon?
The conflict is a result of the Gaza war, which saw Israel’s intense bombardment and ground operations in Lebanon, as well as Hezbollah’s daily rocket barrages into Israel. - What is the current situation on the border?
The situation is volatile, with rocket fire exchanges and airstrikes reported on both sides. - What is the response of the international community?
The United Nations has expressed concern about the situation, warning of serious consequences if it escalates further. - What is the position of the Lebanese government?
The government has ordered the army to secure any violation that could threaten stability in Lebanon and has warned of a renewal of military operations in the south.