Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir announced Israel’s condition for Hezbollah’s disarmament: the step cannot be taken under an agreement planned with the Lebanese government unless the Lebanese army significantly increases its effectiveness in the field.
Zamir made the assessment during a visit to the Israeli army’s 91st Division, which is serving in southern Lebanon. Northern Command chief Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo, Operations Directorate chief Maj. Gen. Itzik Cohen and other commanders also attended the visit.
According to the Israeli army, Zamir ordered units to maintain high levels of readiness and operational capability because of developments in the region. Zamir said the Israeli army had achieved “many significant operational successes” in Lebanon and weakened Hezbollah. He added that the goal of eliminating Hezbollah’s military presence south of the Litani River and disarming the group remained in place.
“This goal cannot be achieved under an agreement sought with the Lebanese government unless the Lebanese army significantly increases its effectiveness in the field.”
Zamir also said Israel would not allow Hezbollah to rebuild its strength, restore its capabilities or reestablish its infrastructure south of the Litani River.
Aoun defends the Lebanese army
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said one day before Zamir’s remarks that his country’s army had “fully carried out” its duties in the south. Aoun categorically rejected Israel’s accusations that the Lebanese army was failing to fulfill its responsibilities.
Meeting with Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen, Aoun said the Lebanese army had expanded its deployment in villages not under Israeli occupation and in other areas in the south. He said army units were providing security, preventing armed demonstrations and helping residents return to their towns and villages.
Aoun also said Lebanese soldiers were protecting the country’s eastern and northern borders, fighting terrorism and maintaining public order despite limited resources. He said Lebanon had requested equipment support, particularly from European countries, to enable the army to fulfill its duties.
Support conference planned in Paris
A conference to support the Lebanese army and Internal Security Forces is expected to be held in Paris, where the issue is also expected to be discussed.
Lebanon and Israel signed a framework agreement in Washington in June with U.S. support. The agreement calls for Israel’s gradual withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the deployment of the Lebanese army in the area.
Israel has maintained its presence in parts of southern Lebanon since launching its latest attack on Lebanon in March. These areas include positions Israel has held for decades, as well as sites it seized during military operations in recent years.
