Hezbollah Infrastructure Dismantlement Near Israel Explained
The Lebanese Army has reportedly dismantled more than 90% of Hezbollah’s infrastructure close to the Israeli border since the implementation of a ceasefire last November, according to a security official. Speaking anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the operation, the official disclosed to AFP that extensive efforts have been made to eliminate Hezbollah’s presence south of the Litani River.
President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon, in an interview with Sky News Arabia, affirmed that the army currently has control over more than 85% of southern Lebanon. The ceasefire agreement, which brought an end to over a year of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, is rooted in a United Nations Security Council resolution that stipulated only the presence of Lebanese forces and UN peacekeepers in the southern region.
The Implementation of the Ceasefire Agreement
As part of the ceasefire terms, Hezbollah was required to relocate its fighters to the north of the Litani River, a distance of approximately 30 kilometers (20 miles) from the Israeli border, while dismantling any military assets remaining in the southern territory. Reports indicate that much of their extensive underground infrastructure has now been ‘filled and closed’ by the Lebanese Army, marking a significant step in reducing Hezbollah’s operational capabilities.
To bolster security further, soldiers have tightened control over critical crossing points into southern Lebanon to thwart any potential transfers of weapons from north of the river. During a visit to the United Arab Emirates, Aoun assured that the Lebanese Army is effectively executing its responsibilities without encountering significant opposition or challenges.
Israel’s Role in the Border Situation
Despite the ceasefire agreement’s stipulations for an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, Israeli forces continue to occupy five strategic positions in the area. Aoun noted that this continued presence by Israel serves as the only obstacle to fully deploying Lebanese forces across the border region. The Lebanese Army’s operations are seen as a fulfillment of their mandate, contingent on resolving the lingering issue of Israeli military presence.
Furthermore, the security official revealed that Hezbollah has cooperated with the Lebanese Army throughout this process, stating that, ‘Hezbollah withdrew and said, do whatever you want.’ The official asserted that there is no longer any military infrastructure belonging to Hezbollah south of the Litani River, indicating significant progress under the current truce.
Condition of Military Assets Discovered
In addition to dismantling infrastructure, the Lebanese Army has encountered various munitions believed to have been damaged during Israeli bombings or found in such poor condition that they could not be stored effectively. This situation has led to the decision to detonate the munitions, ensuring that they do not pose future threats to the region.
The ongoing efforts of the Lebanese Army not only aim to reinforce stability but also to comply with international agreements and reduce tensions along the border with Israel. These developments indicate a shifting landscape in Southern Lebanon as the agreements take effect and control is reasserted.
