Lebanese army deploys to southern border amid Israeli troop movements

Lebanese military forces have been deployed to the southern border region following observable Israeli troop movements near the frontier. According to the Lebanese National News Agency, the army mobilization in Meiss El-Jabal came in response to Israeli forces establishing alert positions adjacent to the Kroum al-Marah neighborhood, prompting Lebanon to position additional military vehicles and personnel in the area.

Presidential Directive and Recent Incidents

The border deployment follows a clear directive from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who last Thursday authorized the army to confront any Israeli military incursions into liberated southern territories. This presidential order came in the aftermath of an Israeli raid that resulted in the death of a municipal employee inside the Blida municipality building, further straining the already tense situation along the Lebanon-Israel border.

Ceasefire Violations and Escalating Tensions

Despite a ceasefire agreement that took effect in November 2024, southern Lebanon has experienced weeks of mounting tensions with near-daily Israeli air raids penetrating Lebanese airspace. Israeli public broadcaster KAN reported Friday that Tel Aviv is considering escalating military operations in Lebanon, citing concerns about Hezbollah's military capabilities. The continued hostilities have maintained a volatile atmosphere in the border region.

Broader Conflict Context

The current tensions unfold against the backdrop of a larger conflict that began in October 2023 and escalated into full-scale offensive operations by September 2024. The hostilities have resulted in significant casualties, with over 4,000 fatalities and approximately 17,000 injuries reported in Lebanon. Under the current ceasefire terms, Israeli forces were scheduled to complete their withdrawal from southern Lebanon this January, but instead maintain a military presence at five border outposts, representing a partial implementation of the agreement.