Israel has ramped up its provocations against both the Lebanese government and Hezbollah, striking the southern town of Nabatieh, intensifying aerial activity, deploying drones over Beirut and detaining Lebanese citizens.
Israel has also been stepping up the demolition of homes and infrastructure in villages remaining under its control.
The escalation came after Lebanon’s government agreed to extend the ceasefire until February 18.
Despite the rising tensions, Hezbollah—having already rejected the ceasefire extension—has remained silent on Israel’s breaches.
Military experts attribute this stance to the group’s limited capacity to engage in a fresh conflict, as well as its need to contain public frustration over the prospect of another wave of displacement and destruction.
Israel’s recent escalation and heightened provocations are a “dual message” to both Hezbollah and the Lebanese army, signaling its readiness for military intervention if the ceasefire terms are not upheld, according to retired Brig. Gen. Georges Nader.
“Even though Israel itself has never adhered to agreements, it is making it clear that it is prepared to act at any moment,” Nader told Asharq Al-Awsat.
Addressing the ongoing destruction of border villages still under Israeli occupation, Nader said the intensified demolitions were a direct response to Sunday’s events, when displaced residents insisted on returning to their homes.
“Israel is turning these villages into scorched earth, making them uninhabitable even if it eventually withdraws,” he added.
A military source confirmed that Israeli forces continue to occupy several areas and towns.
The Lebanese army is continuing its deployment south of the Litani River in coordination with the Quintet Committee overseeing the ceasefire, despite Israeli attacks, the military said.
It accused Israeli forces of firing at soldiers and civilians during the deployment and launching two airstrikes on Nabatieh.
The army said it is helping residents in border towns and working to enforce UN Resolution 1701 while taking necessary security measures in the area.
