Tensions in the Middle East are rising again as Israel maintains a cease-fire with the Lebanese militant faction Hezbollah but refuses to withdraw from occupied areas.
According to the New York Times (NYT) on the 22nd (local time), Israel Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on social media (SNS) that "Israel will not withdraw from the security zone while exposing Israeli citizens to Hezbollah's attacks and infiltration threats."
Israel designated as a security zone the area up to 10 kilometers north from the Lebanon border and has carried out a sweep operation against Hezbollah by deploying armored units, among others. It made clear that it will continue to station troops in this area even after a cease-fire was reached.
The remarks are seen as reflecting Israel's dissatisfaction with follow-up consultations underway after the United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to end the war. The United States and Iran agreed to establish a "de-escalation mechanism" to manage the cease-fire. The mechanism will reportedly include the United States, Iran, Lebanon, Qatar and Pakistan, among others, to monitor cease-fire violations.
However, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was reportedly concerned that such a framework could restrict future Israeli military actions inside Lebanon. In a video statement the same day, Netanyahu said, "The Israel Defense Forces stationed in southern Lebanon are guaranteed full operational freedom to remove the direct threat against themselves and the residents of northern Israel."
Clashes intensified in the southern Lebanon border area after an Israel Defense Forces tank exploded on the 19th, killing four service members, including a battalion commander. After conducting large-scale airstrikes, the Israel Defense Forces also deployed ground troops to encircle an underground fortress known as Hezbollah's southern command hub.
However, after the cease-fire deal, the Israel Defense Forces significantly tightened rules of engagement. Under new guidelines in effect since the 20th, field commanders cannot carry out offensive operations without higher approval unless there is an immediate threat.
Warning shots at Lebanese civilians were also banned except when they approached troops excessively. Blowing up buildings or infrastructure within the security zone likewise requires prior approval from senior commanders.