The tenuous ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, brokered less than 72 hours ago, faces severe challenges as both governments exchange accusations of violations. Israeli and Hezbollah forces have clashed again, raising doubts over the truce's durability.
On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of the potential for renewed conflict. Speaking to a local channel, he said, &ldquo;I have instructed the army to prepare for a large-scale war in Lebanon should the ceasefire be violated. Ceasefire might be brief; this is not the end of war.&rdquo;
Meanwhile, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati called on international powers to pressure Israel to respect the agreement. In a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron, Mikati urged an end to what he called Israeli violations of the ceasefire.
The ceasefire, mediated by U.S. President Joe Biden, mandates Hezbollah's withdrawal to areas north of the Litani River, 30 kilometres from the Israeli border. In exchange, Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are required to exit southern Lebanon within 60 days. However, Israel has imposed strict conditions, including active monitoring to prevent Hezbollah from rearming or rebuilding military infrastructure near the border.
Despite the initial calm, mutual accusations erupted on Thursday. Hezbollah accused Israeli forces of targeting civilians, while Israel stated its warplanes struck southern Lebanon in response to alleged Hezbollah activity at a rocket storage facility.
Displaced Lebanese citizens, who began returning home hours after the ceasefire took effect, are now caught in a climate of uncertainty. Analysts warn that without stronger international enforcement, the agreement is unlikely to hold.

Destruction in Lebanon post Israel strikes (file photos)

Ceasefire violations, mutual accusations, and stringent demands threaten fragile peace

Fragile Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Faces Collapse

Ceasefire violations, mutual accusations, and stringent demands threaten fragile peace

November 29, 2024 | 18:01 IST