Beirut, Lebanon – Lebanese President Joseph Aoun issued direct instructions today, Thursday, to Army Commander General Rudolph Heikel. He stressed the need to confront any Israeli incursion into the liberated southern territories. He also affirmed that the army will fully assume its responsibilities in protecting Lebanese sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.
A statement issued by the Lebanese Presidency reported that General Haykal briefed President Aoun on the details of an Israeli incursion into the southern town of Blida. This resulted in the death of municipal worker Ibrahim Salameh while he was performing his duties.
The president described the incident as “a new act of aggression in a series of Israeli violations.” He criticized the inaction of the ceasefire monitoring committee in taking deterrent measures. He called for international pressure to compel Israel to implement the ceasefire agreement signed in November 2014.
Lebanese media reported that Israeli forces withdrew from the town of Blida at dawn today after storming it. Meanwhile, the Lebanese army deployed around the municipality building and sent additional reinforcements to the area to prevent any further incursions.
It is worth noting that the ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel came into effect in November 2024. However, it has witnessed repeated violations from the Israeli side, which has maintained its military presence at five southern border points despite its pledge to withdraw completely.
