Israeli army commander Eyal Zamir said Hezbollah could not be disarmed under a prospective agreement with Lebanon unless the Lebanese army’s effectiveness on the ground was significantly increased.
Zamir made the remarks during a visit to the Israeli army’s 91st Division, which is operating in southern Lebanon. Northern Command chief Major General Rafi Milo, Operations Directorate chief Major General Itzik Cohen and other commanders also attended the visit.
The Israeli army said Zamir ordered units to maintain high levels of readiness and operational capability in response to regional developments. Zamir claimed that the Israeli army had achieved “many significant operational successes” in Lebanon and had weakened Hezbollah.
Zamir said Israel would continue its efforts to eliminate Hezbollah’s military presence south of the Litani River and disarm the group. He said:
“This objective cannot be achieved under an agreement sought with the Lebanese government unless the Lebanese army significantly increases its effectiveness on the ground.”
Zamir also said Israel would not allow Hezbollah to regain strength, restore its capabilities or rebuild its infrastructure south of the Litani River.
Aoun says Lebanese army is carrying out its duties
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said one day before Zamir’s remarks that his country’s army was “fully carrying out” its duties in the south. Aoun categorically rejected Israeli claims that the Lebanese army was failing to fulfill its responsibilities.
Speaking during a meeting with Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen, Aoun said the Lebanese army had expanded its deployment in villages not under Israeli occupation and in other areas of the south. He said army units were providing security, preventing armed demonstrations and helping residents return to their towns and villages.
Aoun noted that Lebanese soldiers were protecting the country’s eastern and northern borders, fighting terrorism and maintaining public order despite limited resources. He said Lebanon had requested equipment support, particularly from European countries, to enable the army to carry out its duties.
Paris conference expected to support Lebanese army
A conference to provide support for the Lebanese army and Internal Security Forces is expected to be held in Paris. The issue is expected to be discussed at the conference.
Lebanon and Israel signed a framework agreement in Washington in June with U.S. support. The agreement provides for Israel’s gradual withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the deployment of the Lebanese army in the area.
Israel has maintained its presence in parts of southern Lebanon since launching its latest attacks on Lebanon in March. The areas include positions Israel has held for decades, as well as locations captured during military operations in recent years.
