Israel targeted Hezbollah facilities in Lebanon amidst ongoing tensions. Brigadier General Rodolphe Haykal was appointed to lead Lebanese military efforts regarding UN Resolution 1701. Lebanon is also increasing troop strength, planning for 1,500 additional soldiers annually. Coordination for resolving border disputes with Israel will likely involve military personnel, with suggestions for the army to target Hezbollah armaments.
Israel conducted airstrikes targeting Hezbollah’s weapons production and storage facilities in the Beqaa Valley, asserting that these operations aim to eliminate threats to the nation. Additionally, reports suggest strikes occurred near the Lebanese-Syrian border. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that these attacks are ongoing to maintain security for Israel.
In conjunction with the strikes, Lebanon appointed Brigadier General Rodolphe Haykal as the new military chief, tasked with implementing United Nations Resolution 1701 and deploying Lebanese forces to the southern region. Previously, Haykal commanded operations south of the Litani River, an area heavily occupied by Hezbollah.
The Lebanese government is also expanding its military capabilities, approving the conscription of 4,500 new soldiers. The Defense Minister, Michel Menassa, plans to request an increase of 1,500 troops annually over the next three years to address workforce shortages in the army, ensuring an enhanced military presence in South Lebanon.
Furthermore, the Lebanese army is anticipated to play a significant role in teams negotiating border disputes with Israel. Reports indicate that the Beirut government is relying on agendas from the U.S. and France to assist in forming these teams, preferring military personnel over civilians for these negotiations.
Additionally, Al Akhbar reported that the chairman overseeing the cease-fire agreement recommended that the Lebanese army carry out operations against Hezbollah’s arms depots located north of the Litani River as a critical part of their strategy.
The situation in Lebanon is evolving with the recent appointment of Brigadier General Rodolphe Haykal, who is charged with military oversight, particularly regarding UN Resolution 1701, and the potential expansion of Lebanese military forces. Israel’s ongoing strikes against Hezbollah underscore the tensions in the region. The Lebanese army’s involvement in negotiating border disputes with Israel reflects a strategic shift towards military-led discussions, while the government prepares to bolster its military manpower significantly.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
