On January 25, 2025, the Israeli military set up roadblocks in southern Lebanon ahead of a withdrawal deadline from a ceasefire with Hezbollah. Israel announced it would not meet the deadline, leading to accusations from Lebanon of obstruction. The U.N. observed extensive destruction in affected regions, complicating the return of displaced residents.
In Mays al-Jabal, southern Lebanon, the Israeli military established roadblocks on January 25, 2025, in a strategic valley area shortly before a scheduled withdrawal deadline stemming from a ceasefire with Hezbollah. Israel announced it would not meet the stipulated withdrawal deadline, citing what they claim to be insufficient compliance from Hezbollah and the Lebanese army. Conversely, Lebanon accused Israel of obstructing their military’s ability to assume control in those regions.
Despite a ceasefire agreement initiated in late November where both sides were granted 60 days to withdraw, Israel confirmed delays in their withdrawal, while the Lebanese military reported deploying in areas previously held by Israeli forces. U.S. support for an extension of this withdrawal phase seems to be emerging, complicating the timeline for peace in the region.
Members of the U.N. peacekeeping mission, UNIFIL, reported that Israeli tanks have moved along the border, possibly to obstruct the return of displaced individuals to their homes. The situation in Mays al-Jabal is dire, with extensive damage evident from aerial bombardments, leaving most buildings in ruins and effectively rendering the village uninhabitable.
Peacekeepers expressed frustration at being unable to cross roadblocks and facilitate the return of residents. Maj. Dinesh Bhandari of UNIFIL noted ongoing Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) activities in the area, awaiting clearance for the Lebanese army’s deployment. UNIFIL patrols found evidence of Hezbollah’s military presence in the area, including weapon caches.
Israeli military operations aim to dismantle Hezbollah’s remaining infrastructure in southern Lebanon; however, they have faced criticisms for demolishing civilian areas and homes as a consequence. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun voiced concerns regarding the extensive destruction of villages adjacent to the southern border in discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron.
The ongoing conflict has left approximately 112,000 Lebanese individuals displaced, highlighting the pervasive human consequences of the hostilities within the region as large stretches of southern Lebanon remain devastated from previous conflicts.
The current situation in southern Lebanon arises from a recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, following a period of intense military conflict. The agreement outlined specific terms for withdrawal of forces and the involvement of the Lebanese army alongside U.N. peacekeepers. However, disputes over compliance and military maneuvering have complicated the enforcement of this agreement, necessitating close observation from international entities.
This article highlights the escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, emphasized by Israel’s recent roadblocks and refusal to withdraw as scheduled. The deteriorating conditions for displaced individuals and the destruction of civilian infrastructure raise serious humanitarian concerns as both sides continue to grapple with the implications of the ceasefire agreements.
Original Source: apnews.com
