Lebanese Military Access
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
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.
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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.
Watch clip answer (00:16m)
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 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.
Watch clip answer (01:08m)
WION
02:22 - 03:31