Israel Sends Strong Message to US on Lebanon Army's Failure to Combat Hezbollah

Israel has conveyed a firm message to the United States through security channels, stating that the pilot program in southern Lebanon has failed. This program was initiated following a memorandum of understanding signed between Beirut and Jerusalem. Israeli officials expressed significant dissatisfaction with the Lebanese army's actions against Hezbollah's terror infrastructure and militants in the region.

Security sources noted that the Lebanese army is not dismantling terror sites as directed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and is requesting additional coordinates despite taking no effective action. The IDF criticizes the Lebanese military for its ineffective operations against Hezbollah's infrastructure in southern Lebanon.

Furthermore, Israeli assessments suggest that Iran, which previously provided substantial support to Hezbollah, is currently preoccupied with its own survival struggles and is not rushing to assist the group. Senior IDF officials believe that Lebanese Army Chief of Staff Rudolf Akl continues to cooperate with Hezbollah, avoids confrontation with the group's commanders, and fails to conduct effective reconnaissance or destruction of terror infrastructure and weapons.

A senior security official stated there is no real friction between the Lebanese army and Hezbollah, as the latter does not want its weapons or infrastructure targeted. The Lebanese chief of staff is described as not exerting effort, with enforcement lacking and the army more focused on coordination. Consequently, Israel is reluctant to agree on expanding pilot zones. The official added that the Lebanese army only entered a few meters into underground tunnels before retreating, showing no intention to address the threat despite insisting on receiving more coordinates.