The ongoing tensions in southern Lebanon have prompted significant concerns regarding civilian safety and regional stability. Recent reports from the United Nations indicate that since the ceasefire agreement reached at the end of last year, at least 71 civilians have lost their lives due to Israeli military actions in Lebanon. The fatalities include 14 women and nine children, raising urgent calls for thorough investigations into these operations that have resulted in civilian casualties.
Thameen Al-Kheetan, spokesperson for the UN Office for the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), emphasized the importance of accountability in military operations where civilians are harmed. Al-Kheetan pointed out that recent Israeli military activities have impacted critical civilian infrastructure, notably citing the destruction of a newly established medical center operated by the Islamic Health Society in Naqoura during a strike on April 3.
Compounding the situation, reports from the Israeli military indicate that at least five rockets, two mortars, and one drone have been launched from Lebanon into northern Israel. Consequently, tens of thousands of Israeli citizens have been displaced from northern regions, intensifying the humanitarian crisis on both sides. Al-Kheetan remarked that maintaining the ceasefire is crucial, as any escalation poses significant risks not only to Lebanon and Israel but also to the broader regional stability.
On Tuesday, Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health confirmed that an Israeli drone strike on a vehicle in Aitaroun resulted in one death and injuries to three individuals, including a child. These incidents underscore the urgent need for dialogue and peacebuilding initiatives in the region.
Since the ceasefire, which was established following a prolonged period of conflict involving Hezbollah and Israeli forces, tensions remain high. The ceasefire’s stipulations included a withdrawal of Hezbollah fighters from southern Lebanon, alongside a commitment from Israel to retreat from the region. While the Lebanese army has begun to reinforce its presence in southern areas, Israeli forces still maintain control over five fortified positions which they categorize as “strategic.”
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun announced that the Lebanese army is actively working to dismantle military structures and confiscate weapons bases in the south, an operation conducted with minimal interference from Hezbollah. Furthermore, a senior Hezbollah official expressed willingness to engage in discussions with the Lebanese president regarding the group’s armaments, contingent on Israel’s complete withdrawal from southern Lebanon and cessation of airstrikes.
This ongoing situation highlights the urgent need for comprehensive diplomatic efforts to ensure the protection of civilians while fostering lasting peace and cooperation in the region.
#MiddleEastNews #PoliticsNews