Lebanon's army calls for unity and calm after Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah is killed by Israeli forces, warning citizens against actions that could harm public peace.
On Sunday, Sep 29, Lebanon’s army told people to stay calm and not cause trouble after Israel killed Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah.
Hezbollah is a powerful group in Lebanon, supported by Iran. Israel’s strike on Friday shocked the country, and tensions are rising.
The army warned citizens that Israel is trying to create division and harm peace in Lebanon. In its statement, the army asked people to protect the country’s unity and avoid actions that might cause more problems.
Lebanon is already facing many issues, and these new tensions make the situation even more serious.
Lebanon has a long history of conflicts, especially between different religious groups. The country went through a civil war from 1975 to 1990. Today, Hezbollah has a lot of power in Lebanon, more than even the Lebanese army.
Some leaders in Lebanon have criticized Hezbollah for its decision to fight against Israel. Hezbollah had opened a “support front” last year to help Gaza, which has led to further tensions.
Since Saturday, the Lebanese army has sent more soldiers into Beirut. Thousands of people have fled from southern and eastern Lebanon, where Israel’s attacks have been strongest.
Many have gone to Beirut for safety, especially to escape attacks on Hezbollah’s area in southern Beirut.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, has asked people to stay united during this difficult time. He urged all citizens to put aside their political disagreements to keep the country peaceful. Mikati cut short a trip to New York and returned to Lebanon after the death of Nasrallah.
“Our duty during this historic time is to stay united,” Mikati said on Saturday.
Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, who works with the United Nations in Lebanon, also urged for peace. She posted a message online, asking the Lebanese people to focus on what brings them together during this uncertain time.
Even political groups that don’t agree with Hezbollah have stayed quiet since Nasrallah’s death. The Lebanese Forces, a Christian party that usually opposes Hezbollah, has told its supporters to stay silent on social media. A source close to the party said they don’t want to make any public comments for now.
As Lebanon deals with this new challenge, the army and government leaders continue to ask for calm. The call for peace and unity remains strong as the country faces uncertain days ahead.
