Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire Faces Early Challenges as Violations Emerge

A fragile U.S.-brokered truce shows signs of strain with mutual accusations of breaches and concerns over enforcement mechanisms.

The ceasefire agreement, effective since November 27, mandates Hezbollah's withdrawal north of the Litani River and Israel's retreat from southern Lebanon, but compliance remains uncertain.
Hezbollah has reportedly violated the ceasefire multiple times, including launching mortars into Israeli territory, prompting retaliatory Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon.
The Lebanese Armed Forces, tasked with enforcing the ceasefire, face severe funding shortages and operational challenges, raising doubts about their ability to prevent Hezbollah's resurgence.
Israel has warned that any further breaches will lead to intensified military responses, with Defense Minister Israel Katz stating that future actions will not distinguish between Hezbollah and Lebanon.
Hezbollah has begun rebuilding its military and financial capabilities, with support from Iran, while concerns grow over its access to smuggling routes through Syria.