The French military reports that Hezbollah’s disarmament in southern Lebanon is progressing well, despite challenges in monitoring violations of the ceasefire agreement. General Guillaume Ponchin emphasized issues regarding the agreement’s ambiguous language and highlighted the need for additional Lebanese troop deployment. France proposed a transition from Israeli forces to Unifil peacekeepers, but Israel has not agreed to this plan.
Recent reports from the French military indicate that the disarmament process of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon is advancing positively, despite challenges in documenting ceasefire violations. The ceasefire, mediated by the United States and France in November, mandates Hezbollah to relinquish its arms, starting from the region south of the Litani River. French Brigadier General Guillaume Ponchin emphasized that ambiguities within the ceasefire agreement complicate violation documentation, leading to variations in interpretations regarding the disarmament’s geographical scope.
Lebanon has accused Israel of multiple ceasefire breaches, including the alleged killing of returning Lebanese citizens. The monitoring committee lacking military enforcement powers relies on a separate United Nations mechanism for reporting violations to the Security Council. General Ponchin highlighted the complexities surrounding the determination of violations, stating, “It is very complicated in the end to determine whether it is a violation, or not a violation, or if it is simply the application of the agreement with the understanding of the agreement by one of the parties.”
The primary focus of the ceasefire monitoring mechanism is to prevent the resurgence of conflict and facilitate the safe return of Lebanese civilians, especially after the significant displacement during the 14-month war with Israel. The general also presented methodology for monitoring Hezbollah’s withdrawal, illustrated through military maps and photographic evidence. He expressed frustration regarding misinterpretations of the ceasefire, clarifying that its duration remains indefinitely open until formally challenged.
Despite Hezbollah’s withdrawal progress being acknowledged as substantial, Brigadier General Ponchin noted that an estimated 10,000 Lebanese troops would be necessary to ensure stability in southern Lebanon post-disarmament. Although the Lebanese army’s current deployment is seen as “robust,” it still needs an additional 4,000 personnel to fulfill its responsibilities adequately. Furthermore, he detailed communication protocols among the involved parties, confirming direct engagement with Israeli contacts, facilitated through the United States.
In a recent proposal, France suggested that Israel withdraw its forces from Lebanon to be replaced by Unifil peacekeepers, including contributions from France. However, this initiative has not received acceptance from Israel. The Lebanese army faces significant challenges in restoring public confidence, especially as the security situation in southern Lebanon remains precarious post-war. General Ponchin remarked, “The army has to work gradually to maintain the population’s trust; it is a major challenge.”
In summary, the disarmament of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon is reportedly progressing well, yet the ambiguity in the ceasefire agreement complicates documentation of violations. Improving security and restoring public confidence in the Lebanese army remains essential. The relationship dynamics between Lebanon, Israel, and international oversight entities will be crucial for future stability in the region.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
