Lebanon’s speaker labeled Israel as ‘an absolute evil’, demanding resistance against its occupation. He urged the US to enforce compliance with ceasefire agreements. Discussions revealed ongoing Israeli violations since the November 27 ceasefire, prompting Lebanon to file complaints with the UN. A ceasefire extension was announced despite continued tensions and casualties in the south.
Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker, Nabih Berri, labeled Israel as “an absolute evil,” urging resistance against its ongoing occupation of Lebanese territories, which he argues defies international resolutions. These comments were made during a recent meeting with US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, Morgan Ortagus, emphasizing that the US should hold Israel accountable for complying with agreements related to the ceasefire.
Berri stressed the importance of Israel acting on UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon. He also noted the critical role of the Lebanese army in upholding the ceasefire agreement in the country’s southern region.
The discussions also touched on Israeli violations since the ceasefire took effect post the conflict, during which Israel experienced significant losses and was compelled to halt its offensive against Hezbollah on November 27. Reports indicate that since then, Israeli forces have conducted frequent attacks on Lebanon, including aerial strikes, raising concerns about the ceasefire’s integrity.
On January 10, Lebanon formally filed a complaint with the UN Security Council concerning Israeli aggressions against agricultural lands and livestock. Hezbollah has stated that the Lebanese government is responsible for ensuring the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces in the south.
On January 27, Lebanon extended its ceasefire agreement with Israel until February 18, despite ongoing Israeli military violations and the reported deaths of nearly two dozen individuals in the southern region. This situation highlights the complexities surrounding ceasefire adherence and regional tension.
In the context of Middle Eastern geopolitics, Israel and Lebanon have a long-standing history of conflict, primarily centered around territorial disputes and military engagements. The ongoing Israeli occupation of certain Lebanese territories and the various UN Security Council resolutions aimed at peace have been points of contention. The tensions are exacerbated by the involvement of military groups like Hezbollah, which plays a significant role in the region’s defense against perceived aggressions. The legal frameworks, such as UN Resolution 1701, are intended to establish ceasefires and withdrawal protocols, yet violations from both sides remain prevalent.
The remarks by Nabih Berri underscore Lebanon’s ongoing frustration with Israel’s military presence and actions in the region, stressing the need for adherence to international resolutions. The situation remains volatile, with violations of ceasefire agreements contributing to continued hostilities. The Lebanese government’s steps towards prolonging the ceasefire while confronting Israeli aggression reveal the complexities and precarious nature of peace in the region.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
