Lebanon is experiencing difficult times as internal disagreements escalate over how to handle Israeli threats, with increasing pressure on the Lebanese government to hold meetings with the Israeli side. Meanwhile, the occupying army continues to breach the ceasefire declared since April 17, complicating the situation further.
Lebanese political forces are exchanging accusations of treason and negligence, with some blaming Hezbollah for embroiling the country in a conflict that does not concern it. In this context, reports indicate that Israel has displaced around 1.2 million Lebanese to establish a new buffer zone in the south, raising questions about the future of these displaced individuals.
Event Details
George Okis, a member of parliament from the Lebanese Forces party, believes that Hezbollah's involvement in the war since March was executed under Iranian orders, disregarding Lebanese national interests. Conversely, Ali Fayad, a member of parliament from Hezbollah, argues that the war was an attempt to adjust the combat equation imposed by Israel after the previous ceasefire in October 2024.
For his part, Minister of Culture Ghassan Salameh affirmed that Hezbollah could have changed the equation, noting that Israel has mobilized over 100,000 soldiers on the northern border, indicating its aggressive intentions toward Lebanon. Fayad questions, "What prompted Hezbollah to initiate an attack and take responsibility for reigniting the war on behalf of Israel?"
Background & Context
According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, the war has resulted in over 2,500 deaths and approximately 8,000 injuries between March 2 and April 29, 2026, in addition to the displacement of more than 1 million people. The humanitarian situation in Lebanon is worsening, with many living on the streets, like Abbas Bzoun, who lost his home and now lives with his family on the beach.
The new reality imposed by Israel through what it calls the yellow line raises questions about the effectiveness of Hezbollah's weaponry in the face of an unclear occupation. Article 65 of the Lebanese Constitution states that the Council of Ministers is the body authorized to decide on war and peace, raising questions about who truly holds the decision-making power in Lebanon.
Impact & Consequences
Concerns are growing that these conditions may lead to further internal division, as some believe that disarming Hezbollah could result in a confrontation with the state. At the same time, Abdullah Risha, Secretary-General of the Lebanese Center for Strategic Studies, points out that Lebanon lacks a national security theory, making sovereignty contingent upon the interests of sects and their leaders.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun insists on establishing a ceasefire as a condition for negotiations, believing that his government has regained Lebanon's decision-making power for the first time in half a century. However, Hezbollah rejects this path, complicating the situation further.
Regional Significance
The situation in Lebanon has significant implications for the Arab region, reflecting a state of instability that could affect neighboring countries. Additionally, potential negotiations with Israel may open the door to new transformations in regional relations.
In conclusion, the question remains: who holds the decision of war and peace in Lebanon? Under these complex circumstances, it appears that the future presents significant challenges for the Lebanese, necessitating a comprehensive solution that ensures the country's stability and the return of the displaced to their homes.