Israeli soldiers have captured a group of far-right Israeli civilians who illegally crossed the border with Lebanon. According to a statement from the army, the detainees were likely trying to take shelter in a tent on Lebanese territory. Israeli security forces are treating the case as a serious incident and have launched an investigation, BTA reports.
The history of the group
10 days ago, the Israeli newspaper "Times of Israel" reported that the same group that openly agitates for the annexation and settlement of southern Lebanon had claimed to have crossed the border and established an outpost. Immediately after discovering their illegal action, Israeli troops took the group back.
Official Reaction
A statement from the Israeli army (IDF) said:
"Preliminary investigation indicates that the civilians did indeed cross the Blue Line by a few meters. After identification by the Israel Defense Forces, they were immediately removed from the area."
The army emphasizes that such actions pose a serious threat to the safety of participants and hinder military operations in the region:
"Any attempt to approach or cross the border into Lebanese territory without coordination poses a risk to life and hinders the IDF's ability to operate effectively and fulfill its mission."
Agreements and context of the incident
The area the group claims to have entered is under Israeli control in accordance with the latest ceasefire agreement with the Lebanese group "Hezbollah". This agreement was signed last month, on November 26, and allows Israeli forces to remain in Lebanon for a period of 60 days.
Under the terms of the agreement, and despite Israel's historical control over southern Lebanon from 1982-2000, the country has not established settlements in the area.