Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Armed Forces Commander Joseph Aoun have finalized a revised military deployment strategy for the country's southern region, Al-Akhbar, a newspaper with ties to Hezbollah, reported Monday.
The Lebanese military has approved plans to strengthen its presence in the region with 6,000 troops, who will be deployed in a single operation south of the Litani River. The military command has also decided to enhance intelligence operations along border areas, in accordance with the ceasefire agreement.
Sources close to Aoun revealed his apprehension regarding the 60-day ceasefire timeline. These sources indicated that Aoun has expressed concern over Israel's actions, which he claims are designed to "undermine the Lebanese army deployment plan." In response, the Lebanese military has assured Arab international stakeholders: "No actions will be taken that could adversely affect the situation for southern Lebanon's residents."
Military sources disclosed that the Lebanese commander is concerned the IDF might continue its operations in southern Lebanon, potentially triggering Hezbollah responses. The report states that Aoun has urged American officials to persuade Israel to "cease violations and facilitate the army's deployment before the ceasefire deadline expires."
The sources also indicated that Lebanese military command intends to position forces throughout the region from Naqoura in the west to the Shebaa Farms border in the east, with the stated aim of "preventing any form of Israeli military maneuvers."
In related developments, French defense and foreign ministers are scheduled to arrive in Beirut imminently. Their visit is intended to underscore France's commitment to supporting Lebanon in implementing UN Resolution 1701. The French delegation plans to maintain dialogue with Hezbollah and is currently evaluating their representation on the US-led international committee.
The international committee responsible for monitoring Resolution 1701 is set to convene in the coming days, with proposals suggesting meetings be held at UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura.
