Aid delivered to Christian villages in southern Lebanon just before ceasefire
A humanitarian convoy organized by the Order of Malta delivered aid to Christian villages in Israeli-occupied southern Lebanon on Thursday, one day before a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah was announced. The BBC was granted rare access to document the mission.
Mission Details
The convoy traveled through areas under Israeli military control to reach villages cut off by the ongoing conflict. The team reported observing an Israeli military presence but was restricted from filming most of the journey.
The BBC was granted rare access to document the mission, observing an Israeli military presence but restricted from filming most of the journey.
Israeli Stance
Israel has stated it does not plan to withdraw its troops from Lebanon and intends to establish a security zone along the border. According to Israeli officials, the purpose of this zone is to prevent the presence of Hezbollah and protect northern Israeli communities from rocket and drone attacks.
Destruction of Villages
In the occupied areas, predominantly Shia villages have been destroyed by Israeli airstrikes or demolitions. Human rights groups have alleged that some of this destruction of civilian infrastructure may constitute a war crime.
Ceasefire
The convoy mission occurred one day before a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah was announced on Friday. The terms and implementation timeline of the ceasefire remain subject to separate reporting.
Reporting: The report was filed by BBC Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega and video journalist Neha Sharma, with additional reporting by Samantha Granville and Angie Mrad.