US Blames Hezbollah for Israeli Presence in Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

A spokesperson for the US State Department sharply blamed Hezbollah for the ongoing Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon during an interview with Al Jazeera aired overnight between Saturday and Sunday. The official stated that Hezbollah is solely responsible for Israel's continued presence in Lebanese territory and described the group as the main obstacle to Lebanon's economic recovery and growth. The spokesperson emphasized that "the pilot zones are the only practical path to achieving peace" and expressed expectations that the Lebanese army would complete its clearing operations in these areas.

This US statement comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Jerusalem over Israel's military activities in southern Lebanon. The Trump administration recently criticized Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz for affirming Israel's intention to maintain its presence in the region. A senior US State Department official reiterated that all parties are expected to adhere to the framework agreement and that Israel has clearly stated it has no territorial ambitions in Lebanon.

Simultaneously with the US remarks, Lebanese sources reported Israeli Air Force strikes in the strategic Ali Al-Tahar ridge area in southern Lebanon. These strikes aim to thwart threats against Israeli Defense Forces operating nearby. The Ali Al-Tahar ridge is a critical location, previously reported as the site of Hezbollah's underground command center for its Badr unit. The Israeli military is conducting a complex operation targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in the area.

The escalation follows a recent incident in which three Israeli soldiers were seriously injured by an explosive drone in southern Lebanon. In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that the IDF is acting under political directives to eliminate all threats to its forces and civilians.