Beirut, Lebanon – In a political escalation reflecting the fragile situation on the ground, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned what he described as Israel’s “ongoing violations” of the ceasefire agreement. He also called on the international community to exert serious and effective pressure on Tel Aviv to halt its systematic attacks targeting civilians and aid workers.
scorched earth policy and demolition of places of worship
In an official statement, President Aoun affirmed that Israeli violations in southern Lebanon have not ceased despite the ceasefire agreement coming into effect. He noted that the Israeli war machine continues its scorched-earth policy through the demolition of residential homes and the destruction of places of worship. This aims to alter the character of border villages and prevent residents from returning to their homes.
The number of casualties is rising and aid teams are being targeted.
The Lebanese president expressed his deep concern over the daily increase in the number of victims, stating, “The number of dead and wounded is rising day by day as a result of these violations, a situation that cannot be tolerated given Lebanon’s commitment to international resolutions.”
In his statement, Aoun stressed the need for major powers and international organizations to take action to ensure Israel’s respect for international laws and agreements. He also called for an end to Israel’s deliberate targeting of civilians, paramedics, and civil defense personnel, as well as health and humanitarian relief organizations that play a vital role in treating the wounded in the affected areas.
Two weeks of fragile calmTwo weeks of fragile calm
These statements come as the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah nears the end of its second week. This occurs amidst field reports confirming dozens of security incidents and sporadic shelling targeting the outskirts of border villages.
Observers believe that President Aoun’s message carries a veiled warning that the agreement could collapse entirely if Israeli provocations continue. He emphasized that protecting Lebanese sovereignty and the lives of its citizens is the state’s top priority at this critical juncture.
A call for international oversight and protection of sovereignty
The statement concluded by calling for a strengthened role for the armed forces and international organizations in border monitoring. Borders must be monitored to ensure the region does not slide back into a full-blown conflict, the price of which would be paid by innocent civilians and infrastructure already weakened by successive crises.
