Tensions are rising along the Israel-Lebanon border after two missiles were fired into northern Israel. Hezbollah has denied involvement, and the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have not directly accused the group. This uncertainty raises questions about who is responsible, with some suggesting it could be factions of Hamas. However, Israel holds Hezbollah accountable for any border actions.
Both Israel and Lebanon are blaming each other for breaching a ceasefire agreement. Lebanon’s president has called on the United States and France to intervene, as they are sponsors of the ceasefire deal established in November.
Israel has labeled the missile fire as a violation. Despite the ceasefire, Israel has been conducting regular airstrikes on targets in Lebanon, which could also be seen as a breach of the agreement. On Friday, Israel bombed a location in Beirut, but the attack was limited and targeted. Authorities issued warnings for civilians to evacuate the area beforehand.
This approach indicates that Israel is trying to send a clear message while also aiming to maintain the ceasefire. The new Lebanese government and its armed forces are still working to establish security control in southern Lebanon. It is in Israel’s interest to allow them the opportunity to strengthen their position.
Hezbollah has been weakened militarily by Israel’s previous actions, but the political influence of the group in Lebanon can only be diminished by the Lebanese government itself. With ongoing conflicts in Gaza and regular missile attacks from Houthi forces on Israel, it seems unlikely that Washington would support a return to conflict in Lebanon at this time.