Northern Israeli Leader Doubts Lebanon Agreement Will Disarm Hezbollah or Improve Security

Eitan Davidi, chairman of the Margaliot local council in Israel's Upper Galilee, expressed skepticism about the recent framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon, warning that it does not advance security for northern Israeli residents. In an interview on Monday, Davidi said the deal, signed in Washington, allows Israel to maintain its security zone up to the "Blue Line" inside Lebanese territory until Hezbollah and other terrorist groups are fully disarmed. However, he doubts Lebanon's government can enforce this disarmament, noting a similar agreement from November 2024 failed to yield results by the end of 2025.

Davidi criticized the agreement as largely symbolic, granting Israel legitimacy to remain in the security zone and Lebanon's recognition of Israel, but lacking concrete progress in neutralizing Hezbollah. He emphasized that Israel's military presence in Lebanon was meant to complete the mission against Hezbollah and then withdraw, not to stay indefinitely. He warned that Hezbollah continues to strengthen and that northern Israel faces the risk of renewed conflict.

In parallel, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported destroying a fortified underground Hezbollah tunnel complex in the village of Majdal Zoun in southern Lebanon. The tunnel, over 200 meters long and 25 meters deep, contained hundreds of weapons, including drones, warheads, explosives, and four launch shafts aimed at Israel. The IDF stated it will continue operations to eliminate threats from Hezbollah and protect Israeli civilians and troops.

Additionally, the Israeli Air Force struck three Hezbollah command centers in southern Lebanon in response to ongoing attacks on Israeli forces in the security zone. Earlier, Israeli special forces targeted a Hezbollah missile launcher. The IDF reaffirmed its commitment to prevent Hezbollah from harming Israeli citizens or soldiers.

Davidi concluded that while the Israeli government may tout the agreement as a major achievement, the reality on the ground remains precarious, with Hezbollah's growing strength posing a serious security challenge to northern Israel.