Lebanese Army
How is Lebanon responding to the Israeli presence on its soil?
Lebanon has taken a firm stance declaring that any Israeli presence on its territory constitutes an occupation. The Lebanese government views the situation as a violation of its sovereignty, as Israeli troops continue to maintain a presence in southern Lebanon despite a deadline for complete withdrawal having passed. Lebanon is now facing the challenge of asserting its sovereignty in the face of continued Israeli military presence. The new Lebanese government is particularly concerned about reclaiming full control over its southern territories, as the prolonged Israeli presence threatens Lebanon's territorial integrity and self-governance.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)
Al Jazeera English
00:01 - 00:19
What is the role of the Lebanese army in the aftermath of the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon?
The Lebanese army has taken on the critical responsibility of clearing unexploded munitions from areas in southern Lebanon while Israeli forces withdraw from the region. This dangerous but essential work is facilitating the return of displaced families who have been away from their homes during the 14 months of cross-border conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The army's efforts are part of a broader initiative to restore safety and sovereignty to southern Lebanon, allowing some of the estimated 100,000 displaced families to begin returning to their homes, though many are finding their properties in ruins. This demining operation represents a crucial first step in Lebanon's post-conflict recovery process.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)Al Jazeera English
00:38 - 00:54
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 are the Lebanese residents returning to after more than a year of displacement?
Tens of thousands of families in southern Lebanon are finally returning to their homes after more than a year of displacement, even though many find nothing left of their properties. Despite the devastation, these resilient residents remain determined to reclaim what belongs to them. As one returning resident poignantly expressed, they built their homes through 'hard work and toil, without theft, injustice or anything unlawful.' This strong sense of rightful ownership is evident in their resolve, with residents firmly stating, 'This is our land and we will never give it up,' highlighting their unwavering commitment to their homeland despite the extensive destruction they face.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)Al Jazeera English
01:37 - 02:00
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 the deficiency in Israel's military strategy?
Israel has a fundamental structural deficiency in its strategy - it actually doesn't have a coherent strategy. While Israel has military objectives, some attainable and some not, these aren't derived from political means or aligned with diplomatic goals. This disconnect between military actions and political objectives exists across all fronts: Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran. Without diplomatic objectives or goodwill, Israel's military successes may only result in Pyrrhic victories that produce little long-term value despite short-term psychological benefits for Israelis.
Watch clip answer (01:27m)
Al Jazeera English
18:24 - 19:51