Lebanese Army
What significant event occurred in Lebanon despite the recent ceasefire?
On Monday, an Israeli drone strike in the port city of Sidon resulted in the death of a Hamas official. This attack is notable as it occurred after the November 27th ceasefire took effect, indicating continuing tensions in the region despite formal agreements to halt hostilities. This incident represents just one of multiple Israeli attacks that have been carried out since the ceasefire was implemented, highlighting the fragile nature of the peace arrangement in southern Lebanon.
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Al Jazeera English
01:11 - 01:21
How is Lebanon responding to Israeli military presence on its territory?
Lebanon has officially declared that any Israeli presence on its soil now constitutes an occupation. This significant statement comes after the deadline for complete Israeli withdrawal has passed without Israel fully complying. The Lebanese government is attempting to assert its sovereignty in response to continued Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon. This declaration represents an escalation in diplomatic tensions, as Lebanon frames the Israeli presence not merely as a border dispute or military operation, but as an illegal occupation of sovereign territory.
Watch clip answer (00:37m)Al Jazeera English
00:01 - 00:38
What actions is the Lebanese government taking regarding Israeli presence in southern Lebanon?
Lebanon's government is planning to approach the UN Security Council to demand an immediate Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, which they consider an occupation. However, according to political analyst Ali Rizk, beyond this diplomatic initiative, there is effectively nothing that either the Lebanese government or Hezbollah can do at present to force Israel's withdrawal. This diplomatic strategy represents Lebanon's primary response to assert sovereignty, though its practical effectiveness appears limited given the current power dynamics in the region.
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Al Jazeera English
04:56 - 05:12
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.
Watch clip answer (00:32m)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.
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Al Jazeera English
22:12 - 22:30
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