In Lebanon, the United Nations peacekeeping force intensified its patrols along the southern border on Tuesday in response to a series of rocket exchanges between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters. In the southern region, correspondents reported that Israeli soldiers were on high alert on their side of the border, and the Lebanese army deployed on the Lebanese side. These tensions resulted in the displacement of more residents from the border area, with many moving to cities like Sidon, Beirut, and the Bekaa region. There were also frequent Israeli jet intrusions into Lebanese airspace.
As a consequence of the heightened tensions, all public and private schools located south of the Litani Line, particularly in the Tyre and Bint Jbeil districts, were closed. The Lebanese University also announced the closure of its branches in the south due to the security situation in the region.
Hezbollah officially mourned the loss of three of its members who were killed in an Israeli airstrike in various locations, including Marwahin, Boustane, az Zallutiyya, Yarine, Naqoura, and Ayta ash Shab in the Bint Jbeil district. This followed an attack by Hezbollah on Israeli Pranit and Avivim barracks with guided missiles and mortar shells, with the party claiming to have inflicted casualties on the Israeli army.
In response to the escalating situation, many Lebanese residents rushed to gas stations, shopping centers, and warehouses for supplies amid fears that the border confrontations could escalate further and affect Lebanon’s interior.
In an effort to contain the potential repercussions of the Gaza conflict in Lebanon, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri held a meeting with caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and met with US Ambassador to Lebanon Dorothy Shea. Mikati called for a Cabinet session to discuss the country’s security situation, and he held talks with top military officials.
The British Foreign Ministry, through its embassy in Lebanon, advised against non-essential travel to Lebanon and warned against specific areas, especially those south of the Litani River. They emphasized the importance of Lebanon remaining uninvolved in the ongoing conflict.
A political observer noted that Lebanon and its economy cannot endure the consequences of a new war with Israel, as it would have a severe impact on the already fragile infrastructure and could lead to economic collapse. The observer suggested that the current tensions are likely aimed at relieving pressure on the Gaza front.
The Lebanese Kataeb Party expressed concern about Lebanon being drawn into an unnecessary war that serves foreign interests rather than those of Lebanon. They emphasized that decisions regarding war or peace belong to the Lebanese state and its institutions.
The Lebanese Press Editors Syndicate also condemned attacks on journalists and media personnel covering the events in southern Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the need to protect journalists and press freedom.
Source: Arab News