Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened a renewed “intensive war” against Hezbollah if the fragile ceasefire in Lebanon, brokered earlier this week, is violated. Speaking to Channel 14, Netanyahu confirmed he had directed the military to respond forcefully to any breaches.
The ceasefire, in effect since Wednesday, aims to end a devastating war that has killed thousands in Lebanon and displaced millions. Despite the truce, tensions remain high, with Israel striking a Hezbollah weapons site and firing on individuals it accused of violating the agreement.
Ceasefire Under Strain
The truce was brokered by the U.S. and France, requiring Israeli troops to hold their positions while Lebanese forces gradually deploy in the south. A phased Israeli withdrawal is expected, provided no power vacuum arises.
However, clashes continue. Lebanese media reported two people wounded by Israeli fire in a border village on Thursday. Israel claims its actions targeted individuals breaching ceasefire terms. The Lebanese army has begun patrolling areas south of the Litani River but has avoided advancing where Israeli forces remain.
Returning to Devastation
As the ceasefire holds tenuously, displaced Lebanese are returning to their homes, many finding devastation. In Zibqin, a widow described her return as bittersweet amid the destruction. In Qlayaa, residents welcomed Lebanese soldiers with celebrations, emphasizing their desire for national army presence over Hezbollah dominance.
Lebanon’s Challenges
Even before the conflict, Lebanon faced severe economic and political crises, with poverty rates tripling in a decade. A glimmer of hope emerged as parliament announced plans to elect a president in January, ending a two-year vacancy.
Since the war began in October 2023, Lebanon has reported nearly 4,000 deaths, with over 120 casualties on the Israeli side. Despite Hezbollah’s assurances of cooperation with the Lebanese army, Netanyahu’s warning underscores the fragile state of the ceasefire and the potential for renewed conflict.
