Despite the agreement of a ceasefire in Lebanon, Israel has sent troops across the border in a raid on a Hizbullah stronghold. One Israeli soldier was killed in the raid, and two others injured. According to an Israeli spokesman, they had:specific information of arms transfers taking place and we acted to prevent that violation, so that violation is not from the Israeli side - we were responding to a violation of the resolution by Hezbollah.
This is clearly a breach of the terms of the ceasefire in Lebanon. As part of the agreement, Israel was required to halt all military action in Lebanon. Furthermore, the Israeli army has confirmed that it would continue these raids until
proper monitoring bodies are established on the Lebanese borders.
Furthermore, according to a security source in Lebanon, Israeli aircraft fired several rockets at a target in a Hezbollah stronghold in eastern Lebanon. And what has been the response of the US?? Nothing. No condemnation of this violation, only condemnation of the supposed arms transfer that was taking place. There is a very real risk that these operations are designed to provoke a response by Hizbullah, who have been aiding the efforts to rebuild Lebanon and giving $12,000 to those who have lost homes. Thankfully, Hizbullah have refused to take the bait and fall into the trap that Olmert is desperate for them to fall into. Once again, we see how the UN's authority is being eroded by the refusal of the Western powers to openly criticise any violations of the ceasefire by Israel.
Meanwhile, the effort to reconstruct Lebanon continues. The effort is being hampered by the attempt to clear up the number of unexploded munitions that are dotted around the country. According to the head of the UN weapons clearance team, it could take up to 12 months for all the munitions to be cleared. Of course, Israel claims that the weapons comply with International Law, despite widespread opposition to their use and the growing number of countries that have banned their production. Their effects can be devastating, and will no doubt result in the death toll climbing ever higher. Of course, the Melanie Phillips' of this world will point to Hizbullah munitions containing ball bearings which, although dangerous, do not lead to continued fatalities or injuries long after the conflict has ended. From Israel's point of view, the ceasefire is a minor inconvenience. The raids and the provocations will continue, of that there is no doubt.
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