Lebanese army thwarts missile attack, arrests suspects
The Lebanese army effectively prevented a missile attack on Israel by arresting suspects and seizing weapons. This is the first operation of its kind since the ceasefire in November 2024.
What do you need to know?
- Where and when did the arrests take place? The arrests took place in Sidon, southern Lebanon, in connection with a planned missile attack on Israel.
- Why is the operation significant? This is the first such initiative by the Lebanese authorities since the ceasefire agreement in November 2024 between Israel and Hezbollah.
- What are the consequences for the region? The Lebanese army aims to take control of the southern part of the country, as part of the ceasefire agreement.
What were the details of the Lebanese army's operation?
The Lebanese army reported that it thwarted a planned missile attack on Israel by arresting suspects and seizing weapons. The operation occurred in Sidon and aimed to detain individuals linked with earlier rocket attacks on Israel at the end of March.
This is the first action of its kind since the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah in November 2024.
What does the ceasefire mean for Lebanon and Israel?
Under the terms of the ceasefire, the Lebanese army is set to take control over southern Lebanon, which was previously under Hezbollah's control.
"The Lebanese government condemned Israeli strikes but also announced a faster takeover of control in the south of the country," - sources report. Israeli troops were supposed to withdraw from these areas but still maintain five border posts.
What are the reactions to Hezbollah's actions?
Hezbollah, supported by Iran, has been involved in clashes with Israel for years, which intensified following the outbreak of war in the Gaza Strip. "Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated on Friday that his movement will not lay down arms as long as Israel conducts airstrikes on Lebanon and maintains troops in this country," - Lebanese media emphasize. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun warned that disarming Hezbollah is a delicate matter that requires suitable circumstances.
What are the further plans of the Lebanese government?
President Aoun announced that all armed groups, including Hezbollah, will be subordinated to central authority - media report.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem declared on Friday that his movement will not lay down arms as long as Israel conducts airstrikes on Lebanon and maintains troops in this country.
