Israel escalates attacks on Lebanon, disarmament efforts put on hold temporarily

Lebanon Sees Ongoing Conflict Complicate Disarmament Efforts of Hezbollah

A recent escalation by Hezbollah has led to renewed tensions between the group and Israel, complicating efforts to disarm the organization. The Lebanese militant group launched a series of missile and drone attacks on an Israeli military site in Haifa, Lebanon’s northern city, in response to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The attack was part of a broader regional conflict prompted by the war on Iran between Israel and the United States. Since February 28, Israel has carried out a significant air campaign on Lebanon, resulting in nearly 500 deaths, including 83 children, and forcing half a million people from their homes. The Israeli military has also launched a ground incursion into southern Lebanon, aiming to “take control of additional strategic positions.”

Under a 2024 ceasefire deal between Hezbollah and Israel, the group’s fighters were supposed to remain north of the Litani River, while both sides would stop attacks on each other. However, analysts say that the ongoing conflict is making it difficult for the Lebanese government to implement its plan to disarm Hezbollah.

The presence of Israeli troops in southern Lebanon has raised concerns among military experts and analysts, who believe that it will make it challenging to disarm the group. “If there is an Israeli invasion, the Army cannot arrest someone opposing the Israelis on their own land,” said Hassan Jouni, a retired brigadier general with the Lebanese Armed Forces.

The Lebanese government had previously approved a plan to have the LAF disarm Hezbollah, but the situation has become increasingly complicated due to the ongoing conflict. The group’s decision to enter the fighting has taken many by surprise, including Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who received assurances from Hezbollah that it would not retaliate against Israel.

Multiple analysts believe that the presence of Israeli troops in southern Lebanon will lead to a renewed form of resistance, making it difficult for the army to disarm Hezbollah. “No one can implement the government’s decision [to enforce the illegality of Hezbollah’s military actions],” said Qassem Kassir, a Lebanese analyst close to Hezbollah.

The situation remains tense, with no signs of slowing down. The conflict has resulted in significant human suffering and displacement, and its impact on the region is likely to be felt for some time.

Source: Al Jazeera