Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has warned Hezbollah that the conflict will resume if the ceasefire is breached. In response, the EU has called for both parties to adhere to the agreement. Israel has established a no-go zone in southern Lebanon, urging residents not to return to over 60 villages. Thousands of Lebanese refugees are returning home from Syria as hostilities have decreased. The EU emphasizes the importance of the ceasefire for regional stability and humanitarian efforts.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has issued a stern warning to Hezbollah, indicating that the conflict will resume if the militia violates the ceasefire. Meanwhile, the EU has urged both Israel and Hezbollah to respect the ceasefire agreement. Stay updated with the latest developments in our live blog.
Israel Establishes No-Go Zone in Southern Lebanon
In a strategic move, the Israeli military has designated a border area in southern Lebanon as a no-go zone amidst the ongoing ceasefire. Residents who previously fled the hostilities are being strongly advised against returning to over 60 villages in this region, as the military cautions that anyone venturing south of the established line ‘puts themselves at risk.’
Yesterday, the military opened fire on individuals deemed ‘suspicious’ who allegedly attempted to enter the no-go zone with vehicles. Such actions are considered a breach of the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, effective since Wednesday. In response, a Hezbollah representative accused Israel of violating the truce by shelling and attacking residents returning to their villages along the border.
Return of Lebanese Refugees from Syria
Just two days into the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, thousands of Lebanese who had fled to Syria during the conflict are making their way back home. According to a Syrian official, over 4,000 individuals returned to Lebanon yesterday, following more than 2,000 arrivals on Wednesday, at the Joussieh border crossing.
Of the six border crossings between Lebanon and Syria, two remain operational, while the others have been shut down due to Israeli airstrikes. The two countries share a 375-kilometer border, and last year saw more than 600,000 people leave Lebanon for Syria, primarily following the escalation of conflict in mid-September. Additionally, Lebanon had previously welcomed over a million Syrian refugees fleeing their own country’s turmoil since 2011.
Netanyahu’s Warning on War Continuation
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that if Hezbollah violates the ceasefire, the war will continue. He has directed the military to prepare for an ‘intensive war’ if such a breach occurs, as he conveyed in an interview with Channel 14. Netanyahu hinted that the ceasefire might be temporary, without specifying what actions he would consider violations of the agreement.
Since the ceasefire took effect on Wednesday morning, the intense exchanges of fire have subsided, yet the Israeli military has reported several incidents, claiming to act against Hezbollah for violations. Concurrently, the Lebanese army has accused Israel of breaching the ceasefire terms.
After more than a year of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, the sounds of gunfire have finally quieted.
EU Emphasizes Importance of Ceasefire
The European Union has stressed the necessity for both Israel and Hezbollah to uphold the ceasefire. This adherence is vital for the safety of citizens in both nations and allows displaced individuals on either side of the border to return home, as stated by EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell. He noted the importance of fully respecting the sovereignty of both states and called for an end to cross-border attacks. Borrell urged regional and international stakeholders to actively support the ceasefire efforts.
He also reassured Lebanon of the EU’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid and aiding in reconstruction efforts. Since the ceasefire began early Wednesday, mutual hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel have ceased, although isolated incidents continue to be reported.
Thursday’s Live Blog Highlights
One day after the ceasefire commenced, Israel lifted restrictions on gatherings. The Israeli military reported launching an attack on a Hezbollah weapons depot in southern Lebanon. For more on the current situation in the Middle East, check out our live blog for ongoing updates.
Stay informed with the latest news and developments in our live blog dedicated to the unfolding events in the region.