Israeli Military Strikes Hezbollah in Beqaa Valley Amidst Lebanon's New Government Formation; US Issues Warning on Hezbollah Influence
Lebanon: Israel continues to violate the ceasefire agreement. Israeli military: "The [Hezbollah] activity at the site is a broad violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon."
LEBANON/SYRIA - After Lebanon formed its first fully operational government since 2022, following direct intervention by the United States, and skirmishes with Syria at its border, the Lebanese military has stationed units in multiple locations in the eastern sector and along its northern and eastern borders.
Conflict Erupts Between Syrian Security Forces, And Hezbollah, Lebanese President Orders Military To Respond
BEIRUT/DAMASCUS - The Syrian Army has crossed into Lebanon, clashing with Hezbollah militants. The incursion took place in the town of Hawik in the Hermel region.
This move comes after Israel's withdrawal following military strikes on Hezbollah locations and in response to "the sources of fire launched from Syrian territories targeting Lebanese territory."
While Lebanon says Israel continues to violate the ceasefire agreement, the Israeli military says, "The [Hezbollah] activity at the site is a broad violation of the understandings between Israel and Lebanon."
The Amal Movement, led by Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, was instrumental in selecting four members for Lebanon's new cabinet, including Yassin Jaber, who was appointed as Finance Minister and is a member of Amal; there's also an expectation that a fifth cabinet position will be approved by Amal, reflecting the political dynamics at play in the government's formation.
As it stands, Hezbollah's influence in the new Lebanese government would be limited, as the group lacks the "blocking third" necessary to veto decisions since a two-thirds vote is required to pass some legislation.
On Friday US deputy Middle East envoy Morgan Ortagus said that the involvement of Hezbollah in the new government's cabinet is a "red line".
Hezbollah's inability to veto decisions in Lebanon's new government could provide the United States and the West with an opportunity to advocate for measures aimed at dismantling Hezbollah's capabilities in the region.
Lebanese Army: Military Units Deployed To Northern, Eastern Borders:
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