Lebanon Sovereignty
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Al Jazeera English
18:24 - 19:51
What is the current situation in Southern Lebanon following the Israeli withdrawal?
Following 14 months of conflict, Israeli forces have partially withdrawn from Southern Lebanon, allowing tens of thousands of displaced families to return to devastated communities with destroyed homes and infrastructure. While Israel has pulled back from populated areas, troops remain in five strategic hilltop positions, contrary to the November ceasefire agreement that stipulated a full withdrawal. Lebanon's new government seeks complete Israeli withdrawal and plans to petition the UN Security Council to compel Israel to comply with international borders. Meanwhile, the Lebanese army is clearing unexploded munitions and bodies, while Netanyahu has promised to act forcefully against Hezbollah if the Lebanese army fails to keep them away from Israeli territory.
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Al Jazeera English
01:37 - 04:01
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.
Watch clip answer (00:09m)Al Jazeera English
01:11 - 01:21