IDF Strikes Hezbollah in Lebanon as Tensions Rise Ahead of Withdrawal Deadline
The IDF launched strikes on Hezbollah sites in Lebanon in response to ceasefire violations. Hezbollah’s Qassem declared the need for Israel to withdraw by February 18 and criticized U.S. policies regarding Palestine. The IDF aims to finalize withdrawal while retaining control of strategic border positions.
Israel conducted military strikes on Hezbollah positions in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, on Sunday evening. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the attacks were a response to Hezbollah’s violations of the ceasefire agreement. The targeted sites reportedly housed rocket launchers and weapons, reflecting the ongoing tension between Israel and the Lebanese militia.
According to the IDF, the operation was executed based on intelligence from Military Intelligence and aimed at disrupting Hezbollah’s military capabilities. The strikes reportedly occurred in the villages of Khirbet and Halbata, coinciding with explosions in northern Israel as part of ongoing operations to demolish structures in that area.
Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem delivered a televised address during the strikes, criticizing U.S. policies on Palestine and claiming that “everything Israel does is driven and supported by America.” He vowed that any forced displacement of Palestinians would not be accepted and emphasized the significance of Palestinian sovereignty.
Qassem insisted that “the Lebanese people have the right to confront the Israeli enemy” and called for Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanon by February 18. He emphasized that Lebanon must take necessary actions to prevent any Israeli military presence from remaining in southern Lebanon following the deadline.
The IDF is due to complete its withdrawal from Lebanon by the upcoming Tuesday. While the military plans to withdraw from populated areas, reports indicate that Israel seeks to maintain control of five strategic positions along the border. The situation remains fluid as both sides prepare for the withdrawal deadline and any potential repercussions.
In summary, Israel’s latest military strikes against Hezbollah highlight ongoing tensions and ceasefire violations between the two entities. Hezbollah’s leadership warns against delaying Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon, asserting the right of Lebanese citizens to confront Israeli forces. As the deadline for Israeli withdrawal approaches, both military and political responses are being closely monitored for further developments.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
