Lebanese army foils missile plot, arrests made in Sidon
The Lebanese army has successfully thwarted a missile attack on Israel by arresting suspects and seizing weapons. This marks 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 occurred in Sidon, southern Lebanon, in connection with a planned missile attack on Israel.
- Why is the operation significant? This is the first such action 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 is set to take control of the southern part of the country, as stipulated in the ceasefire agreement.
What were the details of the Lebanese army's operation?
The Lebanese army reported thwarting a planned missile attack on Israel, arresting suspects and seizing weapons. The operation took place in Sidon, aiming to detain individuals linked to earlier rocket attacks on Israel at the end of March.
This is the first such action since the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah in November 2024.
What does the ceasefire mean for Lebanon and Israel?
Under the ceasefire terms, the Lebanese army is to assume control over southern Lebanon, which was previously under Hezbollah control.
Sources report that the Lebanese government condemned Israeli strikes but also announced a faster takeover of control in the south of the country. Israeli troops were expected to withdraw from these areas but continue to maintain five border posts.
What are the reactions to Hezbollah's actions?
Hezbollah, supported by Iran, has been engaged in clashes with Israel for years, intensifying after the outbreak of the 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 emphasise. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun warned that disarming Hezbollah is a delicate matter requiring 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.
