In a prominent report published today by the Hebrew newspaper "Yedioth Ahronoth," concerns have been raised regarding what is termed **"the Lebanese Deception"** related to Hezbollah's weaponry. The report questions whether the Lebanese Army has genuinely dismantled the arms in southern Lebanon or if it is merely taking formal steps that may lead to a new phase of escalation.
The newspaper noted that the Lebanese Army, as anticipated in Israel, claimed that southern Lebanon has been disarmed of Hezbollah's weapons, except for certain areas described as "under Israeli occupation." The statement also mentioned ongoing efforts to dismantle tunnels and remove unexploded munitions.
However, the Hebrew publication expressed skepticism about this narrative, highlighting that the Israeli military has observed a recurring pattern where the Lebanese Army reaches designated sites but does not destroy the weapons. Instead, these arms are reportedly confiscated and stored as a "temporary solution" in dealing with Hezbollah, rather than being fully eliminated.
Israeli Doubts and Early Warnings
According to the report, Tel Aviv anticipated the Lebanese Army's declaration but does not intend to accept the assertion that the area south of the Litani River has been genuinely cleared of arms. The newspaper pointed out that Palestinian groups, including Hamas, remain active in the region, despite the Lebanese Army's claims of having a monopoly on weaponry there.
"Yedioth Ahronoth" reported on Israeli military assessments indicating that Hezbollah still possesses military capabilities south of the Litani River. The pace at which the Lebanese Army is operating has been described as slow and partial, even at sites where it has been instructed to collect weapons.
Military Action on the Horizon
In light of this information, the newspaper suggested that an Israeli military operation against Hezbollah's growing strength is merely a matter of time, and noted that this operation would receive American support.
Future Israeli actions are expected to focus on Hezbollah's weapon depots and production facilities within Lebanese territory, potentially signaling a significant escalation on the northern front.