BEIRUT (Dispatches) -- Lebanese government forces have dismantled an Israeli espionage device in the southern province of Nabatieh, near the border with Israeli-occupied territories, the Lebanese Army said.
A specialized military unit discovered the surveillance equipment, which included a hidden camera, during an engineering survey operation on the outskirts of the town of Yaroun, the army statement said. The military warned residents to avoid suspicious objects and report them immediately to the nearest military post for their safety.
The discovery comes amid ongoing tensions between Lebanon and Israel, despite a ceasefire that took effect on November 27 following nearly 14 months of war between Israel and Hezbollah. The ceasefire followed significant losses for Israel and its failure to achieve its military objectives in Lebanon.
Since the ceasefire, Israel has reportedly conducted airstrikes and other attacks on Lebanese territory, actions Lebanon has condemned as violations of the agreement. On January 27, Lebanon announced it would extend the ceasefire until February 18.
However, Israeli forces continue to occupy five key positions in southern Lebanon — Labbouneh, Mount Blat, Owayda Hill, Aaziyyeh, and Hammamis Hill — near the border. Beirut has condemned the continued Israeli presence as a breach of the ceasefire and withdrawal timeline. Senior Lebanese officials have reiterated their commitment to taking “all necessary measures” to end the occupation.