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1. Military escalation in Lebanon: A new phase of tensions
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is escalating, marked by continued Israeli airstrikes and recurring rocket attacks from Lebanon. According to Ynetnews in its October 11, 2024 edition, Hezbollah targeted several towns in northern Israel, including Kiryat Shmona, triggering warning sirens across the Galilee region. In response, the Israeli army intensified airstrikes against Hezbollah military infrastructure in southern Lebanon, including positions in the town of Maroun el Ras, a strategic stronghold.
One of the highlights of this offensive is the use of drones by the Israeli army to eliminate specific targets, such as Hezbollah commanders, including Wafiq Safa, one of the main perpetrators of rocket attacks against Israel. According to The Jerusalem Post in its October 11, 2024 edition, Safa’s death represents a significant blow for Hezbollah, but this action could also intensify this group’s reprisals.
2. The threat of cross-border attacks and strikes on UNIFIL
The conflict has also generated international tensions after Israeli strikes reportedly hit positions of UNIFIL, the United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon. According to The Times of Israel in its October 11, 2024 edition, these strikes led to a diplomatic reaction from France, which demanded explanations from the Israeli government.
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Israel defends its actions by saying all strikes are aimed at reducing Hezbollah’s ability to carry out attacks on its territory. However, the complexity of the terrain in Lebanon, where Hezbollah often operates close to civilian infrastructure and international forces, makes it difficult to distinguish between military and civilian targets. According to Maarivsome European diplomats fear the strikes could undermine diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions.
3. Humanitarian crisis in Lebanon: a population trapped
The humanitarian repercussions of the conflict are increasingly being felt, both in Lebanon and in Israel. According to Maariv in its October 11, 2024 edition, Israeli bombings in recent days have led to heavy civilian losses, particularly in the southern suburbs of Beirut. Critical infrastructure, such as hospitals and schools, was severely damaged, causing massive population displacements.
The impact of Israeli strikes is particularly devastating for Lebanese civilians. The Jerusalem Post reports in its October 11, 2024 edition that more than a million people were forced to leave their homes. These displacements are creating an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in this region, where access to drinking water, health care and food is becoming increasingly difficult.
UNICEF and other international organizations, such as the WHO, express serious concerns about the situation of children. According to Ynetnews in its October 11, 2024 edition, UNICEF launched an urgent appeal for a humanitarian pause in order to resume vaccination campaigns, particularly against poliomyelitis, in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon.
4. Economic and social repercussions in Israel: a high cost of war
The war also has major economic repercussions in Israel. According to The Times of Israel in its October 11, 2024 edition, Israel’s budget deficit reached 8.5% due to growing military spending. The Israeli government faces a significant increase in costs associated with the war effort, causing internal political tensions.
The protests in Israel also reflect unease with the government’s handling of the conflict. In Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, demonstrators demanded the release of hostages held by Hezbollah and Hamas. This growing pressure is explained by the fear of a prolonged conflict which would weigh heavily on the economy and internal security.
Yedioth Ahronoth reports that internal tensions within Benjamin Netanyahu’s government coalition are becoming increasingly felt. Some coalition members worry about the economic impact of the war, while others call for intensifying military operations to achieve a decisive victory.
5. International pressure: calls for a ceasefire and blocked negotiations
On the international scene, calls for a ceasefire are increasing, but Israel remains firm in its positions. According to Maariv in its October 11, 2024 edition, the Israeli government conditioned any truce on a complete demilitarization of Hezbollah. However, this demand is rejected by Hezbollah, which complicates negotiations.
The United States, while providing support to Israel, calls for careful management of the conflict to avoid regional escalation. The Jerusalem Post reports that during a phone call between President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, it was discussed avoiding strikes against Iranian infrastructure, fearing that this could cause an expansion of the conflict.
6. Thoughts on the future of the conflict
The future of the conflict remains uncertain. According to Yedioth Ahronotha military solution will not be enough to resolve tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. A lasting diplomatic solution will require the involvement of regional powers like Iran and Syria. However, as long as Hezbollah retains a significant military capability, Israel will likely continue its targeted strikes.
In conclusion, the situation in Lebanon and Israel continues to worsen, with significant humanitarian, economic and political repercussions.
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