Lebanese Army Thwarts Rocket Launches Towards Israel; President Responds to Hezbollah Threat
Overview of Recent Developments
In recent developments, the Lebanese Army announced that it successfully thwarted attempts to launch rockets into Israel. This action comes just two days after Hezbollah’s Naeem Qassem threatened confrontation against any efforts to disarm the group. President Joseph Aoun emphasized the need for the Lebanese military to be the sole authority over weapons, stating, “The train has already left the station.”
Lebanese Army’s Intervention
The Lebanese Army reported on Sunday that, following extensive surveillance and investigations, they conducted a raid on an apartment in Sidon where rockets and launchers were found. Several individuals were arrested during this operation, and a formal investigation has been initiated. According to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Arabiya, the captured rocket cell was affiliated with Hamas. Just last Wednesday, the Lebanese Army also apprehended individuals responsible for previous rocket launches from southern Lebanon into Israel.
Tensions Between Hezbollah and the Lebanese Government
Amid these tensions, the Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar, known for its alignment with Hezbollah, reported an airstrike targeting a vehicle in the Kotheria Al-Siyad area near Sidon. The Lebanese Health Ministry confirmed that start individual was killed in this attack, identified by Al-Hadath as a Hezbollah operative, Hussein Nassar.
President Aoun responded to Qassem’s threats by reiterating that weaponry should be restricted to the state alstart. He stated, “The Lebanese people do not want war, and the military must be responsible for arms.” Aoun, speaking during Easter celebrations, insisted that any contentious issues must be resolved through dialogue.
Hezbollah’s Stance
In a speech delivered Friday night, Qassem asserted that Hezbollah’s weapons are integral to confronting Israeli adversaries. He declared, “We will confront anystart seeking to disarm us. This idea should be eliminated from the lexicon.”
President Aoun’s Firm Position
Elected in January after a prolonged vacancy in the presidency, Aoun reaffirmed his commitment to disarm Hezbollah, though he acknowledged that the methods of achieving this remain undecided. He emphasized the urgency of addressing contentious matters through direct dialogue rather than public discourse, stating, “The train leading Lebanon has left the station. Those with patriotism will not block it.”
Shifts in Hezbollah’s Influence
The situation indicates a potential decline in Hezbollah’s standing within Lebanon, evident from recent actions such as the removal of images of former Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah in Beirut, ordered by Governor Marwan Fakhoury. This is part of an initiative to cleanse the city of sectarian and political posters.
Aoun remarked in a recent interview with Qatari newspaper Al-Arabi Al-Jadid that he communicated to the U.S. his intention to disarm Hezbollah without instigating a civil war. He noted that while the Americans urged rapid disarmament, they could apply pressure on Israel to aid Lebanon in managing Hezbollah’s actions.
Perspectives from Border Communities
In northern border communities, local authorities reported a tense calm as they celebrated the holiday season, with many residents hesitant to return. The Mayor of Metula, David Azoulay, commented on Hezbollah’s resilience and continued threat. He expressed skepticism about the government’s effectiveness in securing lasting peace, fearing Hezbollah’s resurgence.
Despite the war’s toll on the region, Azoulay noted a small influx of visitors during the holiday. He criticized government officials for their disconnect from the needs of the people living in the war-affected areas.
Conclusion
As these events unfold, Lebanon’s path toward stability and the management of armed groups will be closely monitored. The Lebanese Army’s proactive measures reflect ongoing efforts to maintain national security amidst rising tensions with Hezbollah and regional influences