Academic Paper: Israel’s Approval of a Ceasefire in Lebanon: Motivations and Domestic Criticism (Arabic)

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By: Sameh Singer[*].
(Exclusively for al-Zaytouna Centre).

Al-Zaytouna Centre for Studies and Consultations published an academic paper, in Arabic, titled “Israel’s Approval of a Ceasefire in Lebanon: Motivations and Domestic Criticism,” prepared by Sameh Singer*, a researcher specializing in Arab regional affairs.

This study examines the “Northern Arrows” operation launched by Israel on 23/9/2024, against Hizbullah in Lebanon, marking the most violent confrontation since the July 2006 war. Israel targeted Hizbullah’s military infrastructure, bombing weapons warehouses, depots, and rocket and missile launchers, while also targeting key leaders, including Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah. The operation included a ground incursion into southern Lebanon, resulting in thousands of Lebanese killed and over 1.2 million displaced individuals. On the other hand, Israel suffered significant losses.

Several draft agreements were proposed to end the war during these confrontations, culminating in the announcement on 26/11/2024, that Lebanon and Israel had agreed to a ceasefire and the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701, following US-French mediation.

This study examines the terms of the ceasefire and Israel’s reservations about them, aiming to analyze Israeli behavior and uncover the motives behind its agreement to the ceasefire with Hizbullah. It also addresses internal Israeli criticisms and the challenges involved in the continued implementation of the agreement.

This study demonstrates that Israel’s interest in reaching a ceasefire agreement with Lebanon was driven by the desire to ease the burden on its military and economy, facilitate the return of Israelis to northern areas, and prevent Hizbullah’s influence and military power from reemerging in southern Lebanon after Israel’s withdrawal. However, internal Israeli criticism of the agreement suggests it may have been designed to buy time until US President-elect Donald Trump assumes office on 20/1/2025.