Telangana [India]: Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, discussed the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict.
Ambassador Azar explained how Israel’s extensive military actions have neutralized Hezbollah’s threat along its northern border.
“Israel has taken out the entire Hezbollah leadership. We have uprooted all the military infrastructure that was prepared to launch an attack against Israel from the Lebanese side of the border,” Ambassador Azar told media.
He elaborated on the dismantling of Hezbollah’s capabilities, saying, “Israel has taken out multiple factories of missiles, and drones, and we’ve killed thousands of Hezbollah terrorists. Finally, Hezbollah has decided to agree to a ceasefire.”
The ceasefire, initially agreed upon for 60 days, includes significant stipulations for maintaining peace. Ambassador Azar emphasized, “First, we have to implement Resolution 1701, and there’s going to be an international mechanism monitoring Hezbollah’s infiltrations south of the Litani River. Israel will maintain the right to defend itself if breaches occur.”
Terms and Monitoring
Lebanon has committed to deploying its army to the south, supported by UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon), to prevent Hezbollah’s operations in the region. Azar expressed cautious optimism, stating, “If they fail to do that, it will put the ceasefire in danger. Israel keeps the right to defend itself against the Hezbollah threat.”
Role of Iran
The Ambassador also accused Iran of orchestrating Hezbollah’s aggression. He remarked, “Iran initiated this unprovoked attack by Hezbollah and tried to attack Israel on multiple fronts while staying immune. But Israel took out their missile defence capabilities, missile and drone factories, and even struck elements of their nuclear program.”
Broader Context
The conflict dates back to October 2022, when Hezbollah launched attacks in solidarity with Hamas and Palestinians in Gaza. The violence escalated into major military operations by Israel Defence Forces (IDF) in September 2023, involving airstrikes and ground incursions into southern Lebanon.
A US-France-brokered ceasefire has now halted hostilities, aiming to secure peace and stability. “This announcement will cease the fighting in Lebanon, secure Israel from the threat of Hezbollah, and restore lasting calm,” said a joint statement from US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron.
This ceasefire represents a critical moment for regional stability, though the situation remains fragile, with both sides closely monitoring each other’s actions.