Tensions Rise as Israel Accuses Hezbollah of Ceasefire Violations

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Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz, has accused Hezbollah of failing to comply with the terms of a ceasefire agreement established after a two-month conflict. Following a visit to the military's northern command, Katz stated that Hezbollah militants have not withdrawn beyond the Litani River, as stipulated in the ceasefire deal. He warned that if this condition is not met, Israel would take unilateral action to ensure the safety of residents in northern Israel.

Katz pointed out that other ceasefire provisions, such as dismantling armed infrastructures by the Lebanese army and thwarting terrorist groups in the area, have also not been implemented. He emphasized that Israel will not tolerate any renewed threats to its northern communities.

On the other hand, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and expressed the group's readiness to respond, stating that patience is crucial but limited. The ceasefire, which took effect on November 27, saw a fragile truce that has been marred by mutual accusations of violations from both sides.

A committee consisting of delegates from Israel, Lebanon, France, the US, and UN peacekeepers is overseeing the ceasefire agreement, which includes the deployment of the Lebanese army alongside UN forces in the south as the Israeli army withdraws.

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