Risico op oorlog in Libanon stijgt infographic
Graphic shows timeline of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
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MILITARY

Gaza-oorlog kan escaleren naar Libanon

By Duncan Mil

July 10, 2024 - The conflict between Israel and Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah is looming, and plans are being readied for an invasion if diplomacy doesn’t work -- so far, the talking has achieved little.

To this end, the United States, represented by special envoy Amos Hochstein, is using diplomacy to negotiate with Lebanese leaders, and thus indirectly with Hezbollah, while Israel is putting military pressure on the group through a mix of strikes on Hezbollah forces and leaders.

On July 3, Hezbollah announced the death of Muhammad Naama Nasser, aka Hajj Abu Naama, killed in an Israeli airstrike which targeted his vehicle in the al-Housh area southeast of Tyre, in Lebanon.

Hezbollah responded to the killing with six attacks on military targets in northern Israel over two days. Two of the attacks, the most extensive since the start of the hostilities in October 2023, were simultaneous, with upwards of 200 rockets launched at IDF headquarters and bases.

Special envoy Hochstein is seeking an agreement through which the Lebanese and Israeli sides can “appear victorious,” according to Naharnet -- Lebanon’s independent media.

“One of the exits that he is looking for would be a balanced, mutual retreat from both sides of the border by Hezbollah’s fighters and the Israeli army with U.S. guarantees and an active role for the UN forces,” Naharnet reported.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 10/07/2024; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Alma Research and Education Center, Getty Images
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