Hezbollah
What is the Lebanese Army's role in southern Lebanon after the conflict with Hezbollah?
The Lebanese Army has taken charge of the southern region following the 14-month conflict with Hezbollah and Israeli withdrawal. Their primary responsibility includes pushing back Hezbollah fighters and disarming them, which represents a significant challenge for Lebanon's governance structures. This military presence marks an important shift as the Lebanese state attempts to reestablish authority in an area where it has been historically absent. The army's role is crucial for restoring stability and security as Lebanese families return to find their devastated villages while the region remains under Israeli drone surveillance.
Watch clip answer (00:10m)How has the conflict with Israel affected the villages and lives of returning Lebanese families in places like Kfarkila?
According to Al Jazeera correspondent Zeina Khodr, many returning families find their villages completely unrecognizable with much of their lives effectively erased. The report highlights Kfarkila as one of the areas most severely impacted by the conflict, having suffered intense fighting and bombardment. Residents returning home are confronted with devastating destruction that has transformed their communities beyond recognition. The physical damage represents not just structural loss but the erasure of their personal histories and community landmarks, making the return particularly traumatic as they attempt to rebuild their lives amid the ruins.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)What was the situation for Lebanese families following Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon?
Lebanese families waited for hours as Israeli troops completed their withdrawal from southern Lebanon. They were originally scheduled to return to their border villages in late January according to a ceasefire agreement that ended a 14-month conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The agreement marked the conclusion of significant hostilities that had displaced these families from their homes. Their return was complicated by extensive destruction, with many villages left in ruins and critical infrastructure damaged or destroyed. Amid ongoing tensions and Israeli military presence, these families faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding their lives in a landscape profoundly altered by conflict.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)What is the current situation regarding Israeli military presence in Lebanon following the ceasefire with Hezbollah?
Despite the ceasefire, Israeli troops remain stationed in hilltop positions inside Lebanon, claiming they are guarding against potential violations by Hezbollah. The presence of these soldiers is viewed by the Lebanese government as an occupation, and they plan to file a complaint with the UN Security Council over this issue. While Lebanese families are returning to their villages, the Israeli military continues to maintain a presence in the country, creating tension as Lebanon accuses Israel of ignoring its obligations under the ceasefire agreement.
Watch clip answer (00:26m)What is Netanyahu's stance on the ceasefire with Hezbollah?
When the ceasefire came into effect, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified that it didn't signal an end to the conflict with Hezbollah. Despite the agreement, Israeli strikes have continued to target what the Israeli military identifies as Hezbollah's assets. The Israeli military has explicitly stated its commitment to continue operations against Hezbollah if the Lebanese army fails to act against the group. This position demonstrates Israel's view of the ceasefire as a limited arrangement rather than a comprehensive resolution to hostilities.
Watch clip answer (00:21m)What prompted Hezbollah supporters to protest at Beirut Airport?
Hezbollah supporters blocked the Beirut airport road and burned tires in direct response to the Lebanese government's decision to prevent two Iranian planes from landing in the Lebanese capital. This incident represents a significant escalation in tensions between Lebanon and Iran, with Hezbollah demonstrating its allegiance to Iranian interests through this disruptive protest action. The blockade highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, where Hezbollah continues to function as both a political party within Lebanon and as a proxy for Iranian influence in the country.
Watch clip answer (00:08m)