Israeli forces launched an attack to seize a key town in south Lebanon from Hezbollah fighters on Monday, ahead of planned talks between Israeli and Lebanese government envoys. The advance marks a significant step in Israel’s invasion of southern Lebanon, an area where the two groups have clashed multiple times since the 1980s.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem condemned the upcoming meeting between Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors in Washington, calling it pointless and accusing the Lebanese government of ‘treason’. Qassem stated the group will not abide by any agreements reached during the talks, claiming they are a ploy to pressure Hezbollah into disarmament.
Protests have erupted among Hezbollah supporters against the planned discussions, with some branding the Lebanese prime minister a “zionist”. Despite the opposition, Lebanese officials are hoping to broker a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict during the U.S. talks scheduled for Tuesday. Hezbollah fighters in Bint Jbeil are reportedly prepared for continued fighting.