Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati visited southern Lebanon this week, reflecting an attempt by the state of Lebanon to show that it will adhere to the conditions of the ceasefire signed last month, which put a stop to Israel-Hezbollah fighting.
Mikati visited several areas in southern Lebanon, including Marjayoun. “We look forward to long-term stability in the south through the army carrying out its duties in full cooperation with UNIFIL.
Our priority is the full implementation of international resolution 1701, Israel’s withdrawal from the lands it has penetrated, and the cessation of the systematic destruction of villages and its violations,” Mikati said.
Hezbollah's occupation of southern Lebanon
He said as well that the Lebanese army had not “shirked” in its duties, but that its role is complex. Hezbollah has occupied southern Lebanon for many years and prevented the army from controlling the area. Israel wants Hezbollah pushed to north of the Litani River – as it was supposed to do after the Second Lebanon War ended in 2006.
Lebanese army commander Gen. Joseph Aoun said that “despite all the limited capabilities, the army remained steadfast in its positions and protected civilians. We will complete our mission because we believe in what we are doing,” according to Al-Akhbar media in Lebanon, which is affiliated with Hezbollah.
Mikati also met with UNIFIL commanders and forces in the eastern sector of the organization’s operations in southern Lebanon. This visit comes a month after the ceasefire agreement kicked into place and on the eve of Christmas. It also comes four months after Israel began Operation Northern Arrows against Hezbollah.
According to Israeli estimates, thousands of Hezbollah members were killed. Defense Minister Israel Katz visited Lebanon on Sunday and said there that Israel would respond to any threat, directing his threat against Hezbollah.He also demanded that Hezbollah move north of the Litani.
The ceasefire was signed initially for 60 days, by which time the IDF is supposed to leave southern Lebanon and the Lebanese army should deploy there instead. Israel also began engineering projects to strengthen border security in the North.
Things seem to be entering a new phase in southern Lebanon, after a month of a largely successful ceasefire. What remains is to see it play out.