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In the 148 days since a ceasefire was established on Israel’s northern border, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have killed approximately 140 Hezbollah fighters, which is almost one militant every day, Yossi Yehoshua reports on Ynet. The IDF operations in South Lebanon underscore Israel’s determination to prevent Hezbollah from regaining military capabilities after a year of intense conflict that has caused significant destruction and loss of life.
Recent IDF strikes have targeted key Hezbollah figures, including Hassan Ali Nasser, deputy commander of Hezbollah’s 4400 unit, who was involved in smuggling weapons and funds with Iranian support. Another important target was Hassan Izzat Mohammed Atwi, a senior member of the Hamas-affiliated Islamic Jama’a in Lebanon, who was killed for planning attacks and launching rockets into Israel. The IDF also struck Hezbollah rocket launchers and infrastructure in the Nabatiyeh area, as well as an engineering officer in the Al-Adaisa compound.
Despite rumours of Hezbollah’s collapse, the organisation remains active, attempting to smuggle weapons through Beirut’s airport and produce drones on its own. Hezbollah is also working to rebuild its command structure, particularly its elite Radwan unit, which suffered significant losses during the conflict. The organisation is trying to channel resources through internal “money routes” despite Lebanon’s economic crisis and international restrictions.
The IDF’s active measures are supported by the changing situation in Lebanon, where the Lebanese army has taken a tougher stance against Hezbollah. A senior Israeli military official said that the Lebanese army’s actions exceeded expectations, although Israel wants more. Public opinion in Lebanon is also turning against Hezbollah, with local bloggers and journalists criticising the group for dragging the country into the conflict, raising fears of a new escalation.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has insisted on disarming Hezbollah and integrating its forces into the national army, a move opposed by some members of the organisation. Hezbollah’s actions also depend on negotiations between the US and Iran, as a potential nuclear deal could give the group a new impetus, which Israel is keen to prevent.
While the IDF continues operations, the situation in Lebanon shows a delicate balance between maintaining the ceasefire and countering Hezbollah’s attempts to regroup.
