HRW Says UN Must Keep Peacekeepers in Lebanon

Israel has intensified its military operations inside southern Lebanon, carving out a "security zone" of approximately 700 square kilometers. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated the policy as "We destroy there and build here," referring to Lebanon and Israel, a stance that poses a significant challenge to ongoing US-led mediation efforts aimed at securing an Israeli withdrawal.

The mediation, spearheaded by US General Joseph Clearfield, head of the Military Coordination Group for Lebanon, involves discussions with Lebanese officials on proposals for inspection mechanisms and plans to expand designated pilot zones. General Clearfield is expected to return to Lebanon to discuss these arrangements and the implementation of a "framework agreement" with the Lebanese army.

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We destroy there and build here.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam have addressed the escalating situation in the south, focusing on continued Israeli attacks, the destruction of homes, and property demolition in various villages. They also reviewed developments related to General Clearfield's visit and the agenda for an upcoming cabinet meeting.

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the destruction of all urban infrastructure and the obliteration of the manifestations of life.

Israel's campaign in the border area involves a multi-pronged destruction strategy: bulldozing civilian structures, burning remaining buildings, and demolishing tunnels and other facilities. Security sources in southern Lebanon described the occupied area as witnessing "the destruction of all urban infrastructure and the obliteration of the manifestations of life." Israel is reportedly constructing military positions and raising mounds over the ruins of villages, with explosions intensifying and military deployments increasing along the Yellow Line.

Prime Minister Salam condemned the Israeli actions, stating, "Attempts to justify the razing and destruction on the grounds that military facilities are being targeted are contradicted by the nature of what is actually being struck on the ground." He emphasized that "Lebanon’s sovereignty, the security of its people and the right of southerners to return to their land and rebuild their villages are not matters open to compromise."

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Attempts to justify the razing and destruction on the grounds that military facilities are being targeted are contradicted by the nature of what is actually being struck on the ground. Lebanon’s sovereignty, the security of its people and the right of southerners to return to their land and rebuild their villages are not matters open to compromise.