Israeli troops have failed to withdraw from southern Lebanon before the set deadline, raising concerns over the stability of the fragile ceasefire in the region. James M. Dorsey, an adjunct senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Singapore Nanyang Technological University, emphasizes that while both Israel and Hezbollah aim to avoid further conflict, managing the ceasefire remains a significant challenge.
\"The real question is not just about withdrawing troops,\" Dorsey explains. \"It's about ensuring that the Lebanese army is capable of taking over Hezbollah's positions in the south as part of the ceasefire agreement.\"
The inability of the Lebanese army to fully assume control over southern Lebanon could potentially lead to renewed tensions. Dorsey highlights the importance of international support to strengthen Lebanon's military capabilities, thereby facilitating a smooth transition and maintaining peace in the region.
Efforts to stabilize southern Lebanon are crucial not only for the immediate parties involved but also for the broader Middle East, where geopolitical dynamics are intricately connected. The international community watches closely, aware that any escalation could have far-reaching implications.
As stakeholders work towards a sustainable solution, the focus remains on bolstering the Lebanese army's capacity to ensure a peaceful and secure southern Lebanon, preventing a power vacuum that could reignite hostilities.
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Analyst: Managing ceasefire in southern Lebanon remains key challenge
cgtn.com
