Lebanon Ceasefire Plan Faces Setback as Hezbollah Rejects Deal, Israel Refuses Troop Withdrawal

New Delhi: Hezbollah, standing with Iran, has flatly refused to accept the new ceasefire proposal in Lebanon. On the other hand, Israel also bluntly said that its army will not take a step back from Southern Lebanon. America wanted tension to be reduced on fronts related to Lebanon and Iran. But now this very initiative of his has got stuck.

Which agreement was made with the mediation of America?

On the initiative of America, a proposal was prepared between the governments of Israel and Lebanon. Under this, all the activities of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon were to be stopped. There was talk of handing over the entire command of the security of the area to the Lebanese Army. The objective was to stop the shelling on the border and provide relief to the common people.

Why did Hezbollah reject the agreement?

Hezbollah chief Naim Qasim rejected this proposal outright. He says that Hezbollah was not invited to this conversation. The organisation argues that no decision will be accepted without its consent. Hezbollah made it clear that it will continue its military presence and attacks. 

Has Iran also jumped into this fight?

The matter became more complicated because Iran had already set the condition. Tehran says that a ceasefire in Lebanon is necessary before any major peace agreement with America. Iran has also indicated that if Israel does not stop attacks in Lebanon, it may intervene directly.

What is the situation on the ground in Lebanon?

Israeli air strikes continue in southern Lebanon. According to local people, many lives have been lost in recent drone attacks. Israel claims that it has shot down a suspicious drone sent by Hezbollah. Villages are becoming empty and there is an atmosphere of fear.

Is the war now spreading in the entire area?

The tension is not limited to Lebanon. In the last few days, there have also been attacks and retaliation in Gaza, northern Israel, Kuwait and Gulf countries. This has increased uneasiness throughout the Middle East. Everyone is afraid that this fight might turn into a big war. 

How are experts looking at this whole matter?

Analysts believe that unless Hezbollah, Israel and Iran come together on a solution, peace in Lebanon is difficult. At present the situation shows that the path to ceasefire is long and also very difficult.