Army Chief Concerned over Nabatiyeh Escalation, Reports Say

Lebanese Army Chief General Joseph Aoun has expressed grave concerns about the escalating tensions in southern Lebanon, according to a report from Nidaa al-Watan newspaper. Aoun shared with his visitors his apprehension that the intensifying situation could potentially involve the United States in a broader conflict, prompted by Israel.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has reportedly informed General Aoun that Nabatiyeh, a city significantly north of the traditional conflict zone, is now considered a target by Israel. This came to light after a recent Israeli drone attack critically injured a Hezbollah commander in the area, indicating a shift in Israel’s military focus further into Lebanese territory.

A subsequent drone strike near Jadra, 60 kilometers from the Israeli border, marked one of the deepest Israeli incursions into Lebanon since October 8. This attack resulted in casualties and was seen as a significant escalation. It follows a pattern of increasing Israeli military actions, including the assassination of a senior Hamas official in Beirut earlier in January.

Sources affiliated with the Shiite Duo have accused Israel of deliberately provoking Hezbollah by targeting regions beyond the Litani River, aiming to entice the group into a wider conflict. The attack on Jadra is perceived not just as an assassination attempt but as a clear indication of Israel’s intention to expand the scope of the war.

In response to the growing tensions, Britain’s top diplomat, David Cameron, reportedly proposed measures during his visit to Lebanon to de-escalate the situation along the Lebanon-Israel border. One such measure includes installing surveillance towers on both sides of the border to monitor compliance with UN Resolution 1701, aimed at preventing hostilities. However, according to Nidaa al-Watan, Hezbollah has not consented to the construction of these surveillance towers.