Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
What happened in Sidon after the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon?
On Monday, an Israeli drone strike in the port city of Sidon killed a Hamas official, despite a ceasefire that took effect on November 27th. This attack is one of several Israeli military actions that have continued in Lebanon even after the formal cessation of hostilities was announced. The incident highlights the fragile nature of the ceasefire agreement and ongoing tensions in the region, as Israel continues targeted operations against Hamas officials in Lebanon while Lebanon attempts to establish sovereignty following Israeli withdrawals from its territory.
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Al Jazeera English
01:11 - 01:21
What is the nature of the relationship between Lebanon and Israel regarding the situation in southern Lebanon?
The relationship between Lebanon and Israel is characterized by persistent tensions. According to Rami Khoury, any Israeli attempt to assert control in southern Lebanon faces resistance, with Hezbollah having been the most effective force in driving Israelis out of the territory in the past. The situation is evolving in uncertain ways. These tensions manifest not only between the two countries but also internally in Lebanon, creating divisions between the Lebanese government, Hezbollah, and other forces. This complex dynamic will likely continue until there is a permanent and just resolution to the broader Israeli-Palestinian or Zionism-Arabism conflict.
Watch clip answer (00:38m)
Al Jazeera English
12:39 - 13:17
What options do Hezbollah and the Lebanese government currently have in response to Israel's presence in southern Lebanon?
According to political analyst Ali Rizk, currently there is nothing that either the Lebanese government or Hezbollah can effectively do in response to Israel's presence. Rizk believes it's not in Hezbollah's interest to initiate another round of warfare, as the organization already sustained significant damage during the latest conflict. Despite not being completely defeated by Israel, Hezbollah suffered very heavy blows that have limited its immediate capabilities to respond militarily. This suggests a period of strategic restraint is likely as Hezbollah recovers from the recent hostilities.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)
Al Jazeera English
05:03 - 05:27
What is Israel's fundamental dilemma regarding its borders?
Israel faces a critical dilemma as it has never clearly defined its borders, which has led to continuous expansion, attacks on neighboring countries, occupation of lands, and settlement creation in territories including the West Bank, Gaza, East Jerusalem, and southern Syria. The key challenge is that Israel must determine how to peacefully coexist with surrounding Arab nations and Palestine within recognized boundaries, likely its 1967 borders with reasonable adjustments. Arab nations and 57 Islamic-majority countries have offered to coexist with Israel, but Israel has primarily relied on military force rather than diplomatic solutions. Until Israel establishes clear boundaries, regional conflict will persist.
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Al Jazeera English
20:27 - 21:32
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
What is Qatar's stance on the future of Gaza amid the US-backed takeover plan?
Qatar, which serves as a mediator between Israel and Hamas, has firmly stated that the future of the Gaza Strip is a Palestinian issue. This important declaration comes at a crucial time when US President Donald Trump is actively pushing for a Gaza takeover plan, which has already caused Egypt to postpone an Arab summit initially scheduled for March 4th. Qatar's position appears to reject external control of Gaza's future governance, emphasizing Palestinian self-determination at a time of significant geopolitical tension in the region. Meanwhile, there are positive developments in the Gaza ceasefire deal, with six hostages reportedly eligible for release this week.
Watch clip answer (01:07m)
WION
00:04 - 01:11