Lebanese Military Access
What are the conditions for Israel's full withdrawal from Lebanon according to Foreign Minister Gideon Saar?
According to Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, Israel's complete withdrawal from Lebanon is contingent upon Lebanon implementing its side of the ceasefire agreement. This development comes at a significant time, preceding the funeral of slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and his chosen successor, Hashim Safiyeddin. Nasrallah was killed in an Israeli airstrike on September 27 last year as part of Israel's escalated military campaign against Hezbollah. The timing of the withdrawal and ceasefire negotiations reflects the complex dynamics in Lebanese-Israeli relations following this major shift in Hezbollah's leadership.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)
WION
01:49 - 02:11
What impact has the Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon had on displaced residents?
The Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon under a ceasefire deadline has allowed many displaced residents to return to their border villages, which have been devastated during the conflict. This return comes after more than a year of intense hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah that forced numerous Lebanese civilians from their homes along the border region. The pullout represents a significant development in the ongoing situation, enabling civilians to begin returning to areas that were previously inaccessible due to the military conflict. However, these returning residents face the challenge of rebuilding their communities that have suffered extensive damage during the prolonged period of warfare.
Watch clip answer (00:13m)
WION
00:00 - 00:14
What is the current situation regarding Israeli forces in Lebanon and how are Lebanese leaders responding?
Israeli forces have partially withdrawn from several border villages in southeast Lebanon including Odaise, Kafar, Kila, Mas Al Jabbar, Merkabah, and Hula. However, the withdrawal is incomplete, with Israeli troops reportedly remaining in five locations. Lebanese leaders, including President Joseph Ohne, are pressing for a complete withdrawal, describing the continuing presence as occupation. The Lebanese government is coordinating with US and France as truce brokers to facilitate a full Israeli pullout. Both the UN and Lebanon have declared the incomplete withdrawal a violation of UN Security Council resolutions, with Lebanon planning to petition the UNSC to compel Israel to completely withdraw.
Watch clip answer (00:37m)WION
00:35 - 01:13
What is the current status of Israel's military presence in southern Lebanon under the ceasefire agreement?
Israel is maintaining forces in five strategic locations inside southern Lebanon, despite an agreement that both Israel and Hezbollah were supposed to fully withdraw from the area by Tuesday. According to the ceasefire plan, after the withdrawal, the Lebanese military would take control of the region. However, Israel has not clarified its plans regarding a continued presence in these areas, putting the agreement on 'shaky ground.' This situation is occurring while the separate Israel-Hamas ceasefire also remains fragile, creating multiple points of tension in the region.
Watch clip answer (00:22m)
CBS News
02:25 - 02:48
What challenges does the Lebanese Army face in controlling southern Lebanon after the conflict?
The Lebanese Army faces significant challenges in southern Lebanon as it takes charge of the region following the conflict. The Israeli military threatens continued action against Hezbollah if the Lebanese forces fail to push back and disarm Hezbollah fighters themselves. This creates a precarious situation where the army must demonstrate effectiveness in a region where the Lebanese state has been historically absent. The task represents a major test for Lebanon's government, which must now establish authority in an area previously dominated by Hezbollah while under pressure from Israeli military oversight.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)
Al Jazeera English
02:03 - 02:21
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)
Al Jazeera English
02:10 - 02:21