The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation reported that a month after the start of the ground maneuver, the Israeli army is close to ending it in southern Lebanon, as the Israeli army has begun planning to redeploy forces on the northern border.
She added that this was against the backdrop of talks about a ceasefire and reaching a political settlement with the Lebanese government led by the United States.
Sources in the Israeli army say that the ground maneuver, which is in its final stages, has achieved important achievements.
The sources reported that many infrastructures for the movement of Lebanese factions were exposed in villages near the Israeli border, above and below ground, in addition to the discovery of many weapons.
The sources indicated that the Israeli army captured members of the Lebanese factions who provided a lot of important intelligence information during their investigation, which will help them in the future as well.
In addition, a diplomatic source reported that the meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and American envoy Amos Hochstein “saw progress in approaching the details of stopping the war, but Netanyahu made the file of the Iranians arming the Lebanese factions a pretext for the continuation of the war.”
According to the Western diplomat, “Washington has become convinced that the Israeli Prime Minister wants to wait for the results of the American elections to determine the paths of the war: If the Democratic Party candidate Kamala Harris wins, Netanyahu will try to ensure his interest and the interest of Tel Aviv in any draft agreement that Washington presents with the Iranians.”
Israel has launched an extensive bombardment on Lebanon since September 23, 2024, followed by a ground incursion on September 30. In return, Hezbollah responds to the Israeli bombing, targeting Israeli settlements and locations where Israeli soldiers are stationed, in addition to the confrontations in southern Lebanon.
Source: Israel Broadcasting Authority
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**Interview with Dr. Emily Rosen, Middle East Policy Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rosen. There have been significant developments regarding the Israel-Hezbollah situation. Can you tell us about the current status of the Israeli army’s operations in southern Lebanon?
**Dr. Rosen:** Thank you for having me. As reported, the Israeli army is indeed nearing the conclusion of its ground operations in southern Lebanon. They’ve been executing this maneuver for about a month now, and there are indications that they are preparing to redeploy these forces back to the northern border in anticipation of a potential ceasefire.
**Interviewer:** What are the implications of such a redeployment?
**Dr. Rosen:** Redeployment signifies a tactical shift. It suggests that Israel may be preparing for a longer-term strategy instead of a continued military presence in southern Lebanon. This could create space for diplomatic negotiations, especially considering that talks with the Lebanese government, facilitated by the U.S., are ongoing.
**Interviewer:** The U.S. is playing a role in mediating between Israel and Hezbollah. How critical is American involvement in achieving a ceasefire?
**Dr. Rosen:** U.S. involvement is crucial. The U.S. has leverage and influence in the region, and it can promote dialogue and negotiations that might lead to a ceasefire. The fact that they are pushing for a ceasefire indicates a recognition of the need to stabilize the region and address humanitarian issues.
**Interviewer:** What do you think a ceasefire might look like, especially concerning the deployment of the Lebanese army along the border?
**Dr. Rosen:** A ceasefire would likely involve a withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon, as reported, with the Lebanese army taking a more active role in securing the border. This could potentially foster a sense of responsibility for local stability and deter further conflict, but it will depend on the level of trust between the parties involved.
**Interviewer:** what are the prospects for long-term peace in the region following these developments?
**Dr. Rosen:** Long-term peace will depend on a comprehensive agreement that addresses the underlying issues of the conflict. A ceasefire is just one step in the process. It will be vital for all parties—Israel, Hezbollah, and the Lebanese government—to engage in sustained dialogue and work toward a political settlement that prioritizes security and stability for all involved.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Rosen, for your insights on this complex situation.
**Dr. Rosen:** Thank you for having me. It’s a critical time for the region, and I hope for a resolution that brings everyone closer to peace.
