Hezbollah Demands Full Implementation of UN Resolution 1701 Amid Israeli Escalation
Israeli media reported that Hezbollah is insisting on the complete and immediate implementation of UN Resolution 1701, rejecting any amendments that would permit Israeli military activity, including air force operations, in Lebanese airspace or introduce Israeli–US oversight in southern Lebanese villages.
According to Israeli Channel 12, Hezbollah has firmly rejected any gradual approach, demanding immediate adherence to the resolution's original terms without modifications. This position aligns with Lebanon’s official stance, as reiterated by key Lebanese leaders, including Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Acting Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who have called for strict adherence to Resolution 1701.
Risk of Military Escalation in Lebanon
Amid these demands, concerns are growing within Israeli security circles regarding the risks of expanding military operations in Lebanon. The Wall Street Journal reported that Israeli officials fear a prolonged and costly war of attrition with Hezbollah, particularly in the face of the group's significant arsenal.
Israeli Reserve Major General Israel Ziv recently acknowledged Hezbollah's growing strength, warning that Israel’s leverage in any political settlement is diminishing. “What Israel could have achieved yesterday is no longer attainable today or tomorrow,” he stated.
Adding to the pressure, Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth highlighted Hezbollah's ability to launch rockets capable of sending millions of Israelis into shelters, describing this as a significant factor reducing Israel’s negotiation power.
Ceasefire Negotiations at a Standstill
Efforts to broker a ceasefire have faced significant obstacles, particularly over Israeli demands for a conditional ceasefire. The proposed terms, reportedly discussed in international forums, include Hezbollah's withdrawal north of the Litani River and the deployment of the Lebanese Army and UNIFIL to secure southern Lebanon.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Israel is also seeking support from Russia to disrupt arms smuggling routes from Syria into Lebanon while pushing for US, UK, and French involvement in monitoring southern Lebanon.
French Criticism of Israeli Demands
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot criticized Israeli conditions for a ceasefire, including retaining the right to strike Lebanon at any time, calling such demands incompatible with Lebanese sovereignty. During a parliamentary hearing, Barrot stressed the importance of strengthening governance in Lebanon, warning that these demands could undermine diplomatic efforts.
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Hezbollah's Defiance
Meanwhile, the Israeli military has announced the second phase of its ground invasion in South Lebanon following the failure of its initial maneuvers to dislodge Hezbollah or halt its rocket and drone attacks. In response, Hezbollah’s Operations Room declared its readiness to counter any offensive, warning that Israel’s renewed attempts would only lead to further losses.
As tensions mount, the situation underscores the high stakes for both sides and the broader implications for regional stability