Lebanon Sovereignty
How is the Lebanese government responding to the continued presence of Israeli troops after the ceasefire?
The Lebanese government views the continued presence of Israeli troops in hilltop positions inside Lebanon as an occupation, despite Israel claiming these positions are necessary to guard against ceasefire violations by Hezbollah. In response, the Lebanese government plans to file a formal complaint to the UN Security Council. The government accuses Israel of "turning a blind eye to their obligations" and "dishonoring all its promises" related to the ceasefire agreement. This diplomatic approach highlights the tensions that persist in southern Lebanon even after the formal cessation of hostilities.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)
Al Jazeera English
01:11 - 01:35
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
What was the situation for Lebanese families following Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon?
Lebanese families waited for hours as Israeli troops completed their withdrawal from southern Lebanon. They were originally scheduled to return to their border villages in late January according to a ceasefire agreement that ended a 14-month conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The agreement marked the conclusion of significant hostilities that had displaced these families from their homes. Their return was complicated by extensive destruction, with many villages left in ruins and critical infrastructure damaged or destroyed. Amid ongoing tensions and Israeli military presence, these families faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding their lives in a landscape profoundly altered by conflict.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)Al Jazeera English
00:00 - 00:15
What is the current situation regarding Israeli military presence in Lebanon following the ceasefire with Hezbollah?
Despite the ceasefire, Israeli troops remain stationed in hilltop positions inside Lebanon, claiming they are guarding against potential violations by Hezbollah. The presence of these soldiers is viewed by the Lebanese government as an occupation, and they plan to file a complaint with the UN Security Council over this issue. While Lebanese families are returning to their villages, the Israeli military continues to maintain a presence in the country, creating tension as Lebanon accuses Israel of ignoring its obligations under the ceasefire agreement.
Watch clip answer (00:26m)Al Jazeera English
01:07 - 01:34
What prompted Hezbollah supporters to protest at Beirut Airport?
Hezbollah supporters blocked the Beirut airport road and burned tires in direct response to the Lebanese government's decision to prevent two Iranian planes from landing in the Lebanese capital. This incident represents a significant escalation in tensions between Lebanon and Iran, with Hezbollah demonstrating its allegiance to Iranian interests through this disruptive protest action. The blockade highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, where Hezbollah continues to function as both a political party within Lebanon and as a proxy for Iranian influence in the country.
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WION
02:14 - 02:23
What role does the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah play in the broader Middle East tensions?
The clash between Israel and Hezbollah represents the central force driving regional violence in the Middle East. While Hezbollah faces significant weakening following major attacks, the conflict clearly demonstrates that Hezbollah was merely one 'foot soldier' in a larger confrontation between two Middle East powers. Even as Hezbollah's future role in Iran's proxy network remains uncertain, recent events highlight an escalating situation with broader implications. The conflict is propelling the region toward increasing violence, with Hezbollah functioning as just one element in this expanding confrontation between regional powers, primarily Israel and Iran.
Watch clip answer (00:38m)
Johnny Harris
12:42 - 13:20