The Lebanese Army has started deploying south of the Litani River in coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), following a cease-fire agreement. However, tensions persist as the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) struck a Hezbollah rocket storage facility and issued artillery warnings to deter civilians from entering restricted military zones in southern Lebanon. Reports indicate Israeli forces shelled multiple areas, including Markaba, Taybah, and Khiam, resulting in casualties and injuries. Hezbollah officials have accused Israel of violating the cease-fire by targeting civilians returning to their homes.
The IDF announced a curfew for southern Lebanon up to the Litani River for the second consecutive night, restricting movement from 5:00 PM to 7:00 AM. The military claims that over 2,500 Hezbollah operatives have been killed since the conflict began. Israeli officials emphasize that recent military actions aim to strengthen deterrence against Hezbollah, although the long-term success depends on strict enforcement, which risks reigniting hostilities.
Diplomatic Efforts to End Gaza War
An Egyptian delegation arrived in Israel to push for a cease-fire in Gaza, with discussions centered on the release of hostages and de-escalation. Egyptian officials are reportedly seeking U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s intervention to encourage Israel to compromise on certain demands, such as establishing a buffer zone between Gaza and Israel. However, sources indicate Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may delay significant decisions until Trump takes office.
Despite ongoing negotiations, Hamas shows no signs of agreeing to a cease-fire before the end of President Joe Biden's term. Analysts suggest that Hamas fears an intensified IDF focus on Gaza following the Lebanon cease-fire, leading to pressure for an agreement.
Casualties and Humanitarian Concerns
In Gaza, at least 21 Palestinians were killed on Thursday in Israeli airstrikes, targeting locations such as Beit Lahia and Khan Yunis. Since the war began, Gaza's Hamas-controlled health ministry reports over 44,330 Palestinian deaths and 104,933 injuries. Israel declared war after Hamas’s October 7 attack, which left at least 1,200 Israelis dead and over 3,300 wounded. Hostage situations remain critical, with over 120 individuals, including foreign nationals, held by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
ICC Investigations and West Bank Developments
The International Criminal Court (ICC) continues to draw attention, with potential arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant possibly rescinded if Israel initiates a comprehensive investigation into the Gaza conflict. Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has named Rouhi Fattouh as his temporary successor amid growing pressure for a leadership transition.
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