Part 5/12:
A critical sticking point remains Israel’s demand for operational freedom in Lebanon. Israel fears that without assurance, Hezbollah will bypass ceasefire terms and re-establish military presence south of the Lani River, risking another full-scale conflict. Past violations after the 2006 war, when Hezbollah rapidly expanded its capabilities beyond UN constraints, continue to influence current negotiations. To address these concerns, the U.S. proposal now includes the formation of a five-member international monitoring committee, led by the U.S., tasked with ensuring compliance. Moreover, Washington has explicitly guaranteed support for renewed Israeli military operations should Hezbollah attempt rearmament and incursions into southern Lebanon.