Hezbollah
What is happening in southern Lebanon following Israel's partial withdrawal?
The Lebanese army is clearing unexploded munitions from southern areas while Israeli forces partially withdraw. Some families displaced by 14 months of cross-border fighting between Israel and Hezbollah are returning to their homes, many of which are in ruins. Lebanon's new prime minister has demanded that Israeli troops leave 'every last inch' of Lebanon, but Israel's Defense minister has stated that soldiers will remain in five positions. Israel has pledged to enforce the ceasefire while reserving the right to act against any perceived Hezbollah threat.
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Al Jazeera English
00:38 - 01:11
What diplomatic challenge is Marco Rubio facing in the Middle East?
Marco Rubio, as US Secretary of State, is making his first visit to the Middle East while facing the significant challenge of maintaining two separate ceasefires - one in Gaza and another in Lebanon. This diplomatic mission represents a crucial test for the Trump administration's approach to Middle Eastern diplomacy. The timing is particularly challenging as it coincides with Israeli forces partially withdrawing from southern Lebanon amid regional tensions. Rubio's efforts focus on preserving fragile stability in a region where competing interests and ongoing conflicts make diplomatic solutions exceptionally difficult to achieve and maintain.
Watch clip answer (00:18m)
Al Jazeera English
22:12 - 22:30
How has the conflict and destruction affected Hezbollah's popularity in Lebanon?
According to political analyst Ali Rizk, despite the widespread destruction in southern Lebanon, Hezbollah's popularity has not diminished but actually increased. He notes that masses of people have returned to their homes in southern Lebanon despite immense damage to the area. Rizk emphasizes that contrary to what might be expected, the devastation caused by the conflict has not negatively impacted Hezbollah's standing among the Lebanese population. If anything, the group appears to have gained stronger support in the aftermath of the destruction.
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Al Jazeera English
08:49 - 09:30
What timeline does the former Israeli Ambassador suggest for potential Hezbollah actions?
According to Alon Pinkas, the former Israeli Ambassador, Hezbollah's strategic response might unfold within a timeframe of six to eight months from now, rather than over decades. He suggests this could 'certainly become Hezbollah's logic' for planning their actions following Israel's partial withdrawal from Lebanon. This relatively short timeline indicates an expectation of calculated movements by Hezbollah in the near future, rather than a long-term waiting game. The ambassador's assessment provides insight into how Israeli officials view the potential resurgence and tactical planning of Hezbollah forces in the region.
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Al Jazeera English
13:33 - 13:42
What is Lebanon's stance on Israeli troop presence in its territory?
Lebanon considers any Israeli presence on Lebanese soil as occupation, with all legal consequences that entails under international law. The Lebanese government is calling on the UN Security Council to enforce Resolution 1701, demanding Israel withdraw immediately to international borders. According to Lebanese officials, the Security Council needs to take necessary measures to address Israeli violations and compel Israel to respect Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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WION
02:22 - 03:31
What did officials anticipate regarding Israel's troop presence in Lebanon?
According to the transcript, Israeli and Lebanese officials, along with foreign diplomats, had anticipated that Israel would maintain some military presence in southern Lebanon beyond initial deadlines. The original deadline in early October was extended to February 18, but there was an expectation that Israel would not fully withdraw its forces. Instead, officials expected Israel to retain troops on parts of the Lebanese territory, suggesting a continued military footprint in the region despite diplomatic timelines for withdrawal.
Watch clip answer (00:11m)
WION
03:19 - 03:31