Lebanon

The IDF continued operations to prevent Hezbollah from violating the ceasefire, targeting Hezbollah operatives and destroying weapons and terrorist facilities in south Lebanon; Na'im Qassem, Hezbollah secretary general, and other senior organization figures reiterated their "commitment" to the ceasefire, saying that the Lebanese government and army should address "Israeli violations." They also warned that the organization might resume attacks if Israel did not complete its withdrawal by the end of the 60-day ceasefire; Nabih Berri, the speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, and Najib Mikati, prime minister of the Lebanese interim government, expressed concern over reports that Israel was going to extend the ceasefire beyond January 27, 2025, and keep its forces in south Lebanon. According to reports, the American general heading the oversight committee told the Lebanese that Israel would continue its operations because of the Lebanese Army's inability to clear the area of Hezbollah; Hezbollah officially announced the launch of Lebanon's reconstruction campaign, stating that Iran would provide the necessary funding. A senior Hezbollah figure said the organization had restored its capabilities and warned its opponents in Lebanon "not to test us"; Lebanese security forces searched an Iranian plane on suspicion it was carrying funds for Hezbollah. The editor of a Hezbollah-affiliated daily accused the forces of capitulating to American pressure; Nabih Berri, the speaker of the Lebanese Parliament, said he would not adjourn the session to elect a new president on January 9, 2025, until a consensus candidate had been found. Hezbollah said that it would not veto the candidacy of Joseph Aoun, commander of the Lebanese Army.  Read more...