Lebanese army foils missile attack, tensions rise post-ceasefire
The Lebanese army effectively prevented a missile attack on Israel by arresting suspects and seizing weapons. This marks the first operation of its kind since the ceasefire was established in November 2024.
What do you need to know?
- Where and when did the arrests take place? The arrests occurred in Sidon, a city in southern Lebanon, in connection with a planned missile attack on Israel.
- Why is the operation significant? This is the first such action taken by the Lebanese authorities since the ceasefire agreement was reached between Israel and Hezbollah in November 2024.
- What are the consequences for the region? The Lebanese army is set to take control of the southern part of the country as part of the ceasefire agreement.
What were the details of the Lebanese army's operation?
The Lebanese army reported that it thwarted a planned missile attack on Israel by arresting suspects and seizing weapons. The operation occurred in Sidon and aimed to detain individuals connected to earlier rocket attacks on Israel at the end of March.
This is the first such action since the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah in November 2024.
What does the ceasefire mean for Lebanon and Israel?
Under the terms of the ceasefire, the Lebanese army is to take control of southern Lebanon, which was previously controlled by Hezbollah.
Sources report the Lebanese government condemned Israeli strikes but also announced a faster takeover of control in the south of the country. Israeli troops were supposed to withdraw from these areas but still maintain control of five border posts.
What are the reactions to Hezbollah's actions?
Hezbollah, supported by Iran, has been engaged in clashes with Israel for years, which intensified after the outbreak of war in the Gaza Strip. "Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated on Friday that his movement will not lay down arms as long as Israel conducts airstrikes on Lebanon and maintains troops in this country," Lebanese media emphasize. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun warned that disarming Hezbollah is a delicate matter that requires appropriate circumstances.
What are the further plans of the Lebanese government?
President Aoun announced that all armed groups, including Hezbollah, will be subordinated to central authority, according to media reports.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem declared on Friday that his movement will not lay down arms as long as Israel continues airstrikes on Lebanon and retains troops in the country.
