Ceasefire Aftermath
Why do Lebanese residents distrust Israel's announced withdrawal from southern Lebanon?
Lebanese residents distrust Israel based on past experiences during ceasefire violations, where Israeli forces penetrated territories and caused significant damage. The speaker emphasizes that Israel is considered an enemy that cannot be trusted based on historical precedent. The resident insists any legitimate withdrawal must be complete, with no soldiers remaining in southern Lebanon. There are concerns that Israel might maintain control over certain areas, effectively occupying southern Lebanon similar to what happened with the Golan. Instead, the speaker expresses confidence in Lebanon's own institutions, including their army and president, to maintain sovereignty.
Watch clip answer (00:33m)
WION
02:00 - 02:34
What is Israel's stance on the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon?
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Sunday that Israel would do whatever necessary to enforce the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon. This ceasefire, brokered by the United States in November, outlines a structured withdrawal process for Israeli forces over a 60-day period. Under the terms of this agreement, Lebanon's military would deploy alongside UN peacekeepers as Israeli troops withdraw from southern Lebanon. This arrangement aims to establish security in the region while maintaining Israel's commitment to upholding the ceasefire conditions.
Watch clip answer (00:20m)
WION
00:33 - 00:54
How does the Lebanese official view Israel in the context of the current conflict?
The Lebanese official expresses an unequivocal stance toward Israel, stating directly that 'Israel is an enemy and we can't trust it.' This statement reflects the deep-seated distrust and antagonistic relationship between Lebanon and Israel following the recent conflict and expiration of the withdrawal deadline for Israeli troops from South Lebanon. This perspective is shared against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire deal with Hezbollah and widespread devastation across eastern Lebanon with reconstruction costs estimated at over $10 billion. The official's statement underscores the fundamental challenge in establishing regional stability as Lebanese authorities assert their sovereignty while maintaining a position of profound suspicion toward Israeli intentions.
Watch clip answer (00:03m)WION
02:00 - 02:04
What casualties have occurred since the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon began?
Since the truce began, approximately 60 people have reportedly been killed in Lebanon. The most significant loss of life occurred on January 26, when about two dozen people died as residents attempted to return to their border towns on what was originally designated as the initial withdrawal deadline. These casualties highlight the ongoing dangers in the region despite the official ceasefire agreement. Thousands of displaced residents are still waiting to return to their devastated communities, where reconstruction efforts are estimated to cost over $10 billion.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)WION
01:43 - 01:55
What is the estimated cost of reconstruction in Lebanon and what safety measures are being taken for returning residents?
Lebanese authorities estimate reconstruction costs could exceed $10 billion following the recent conflict that caused extensive damage to border communities. For safety reasons, displaced residents are being instructed not to return to their homes immediately. Border towns and villages have specifically called on residents to wait until the Lebanese army has deployed to these areas before attempting to return. This precautionary measure is being implemented by authorities to guarantee the safety of returning civilians amid the post-conflict instability in the region.
Watch clip answer (00:19m)WION
01:22 - 01:41
What happened after the deadline for Israeli troops to withdraw from South Lebanon expired?
Despite the expiration of the withdrawal deadline that was part of a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, the Israeli military announced it would maintain a presence in five strategic positions in South Lebanon. The deadline had been previously agreed upon as part of the ceasefire deal with Hezbollah and was extended to February 18th. This decision by Israel to remain deployed in certain areas occurred hours after the official deadline had passed, indicating a partial rather than complete withdrawal from the region.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)WION
00:00 - 00:17