Mikati laments Israel, but Hezbollah’s actions are the real issue

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati stated on Wednesday that "Arab and international" efforts to pressure Israel into a "specific duration ceasefire" in Lebanon are ongoing, lamenting what he called Israel's "intransigence." 

Mikati assured that he continues to "engage in necessary contacts," while other "Arab and foreign" countries are also "pressing for a ceasefire of a specific duration to allow time for discussions" regarding the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

However, this statement from the Prime Minister raises questions. Instead of focusing on "pressuring Israel," Mikati would do well to exert pressure on Hezbollah, the militant group responsible for escalating tensions in the region. Supported by Iran, Hezbollah’s actions have fueled the current chaos in Lebanon, with regular attacks on Israel from Lebanese soil.

Mikati, who maintains close ties to the Syrian regime, seems trapped in the political web spun by Hezbollah. As a result, his calls for international intervention seem more about preserving the status quo than addressing the root causes of Lebanon’s turmoil.

While Mikati appeals to international powers for a ceasefire, he fails to acknowledge the Iran-backed Hezbollah’s responsibility for the ongoing violence. Over the years, Hezbollah has entrenched itself in Lebanon’s political and military structures, conducting attacks against Israel while using Lebanese civilians as shields. These actions have only deepened Lebanon’s instability.

Prime Minister Mikati, constrained by Hezbollah’s influence, is unlikely to openly criticize the group’s behavior. His close relationship with the Syrian regime—another staunch ally of Iran—further limits his ability to act independently. As a result, he continues to adhere to the dictates of Iran, unable to take decisive action against the real source of Lebanon's problems.

The current situation calls for a broader international response, not just one focused on Israel's actions. While a ceasefire would certainly help alleviate immediate suffering, any long-term solution requires addressing Hezbollah’s ongoing militarization and Iran’s destabilizing influence in Lebanon. 

The full implementation of Resolution 1701, which calls for disarming Hezbollah, is crucial for restoring stability in the region.

It is time for Lebanon's leaders, including Mikati, to take a stand against the forces that are truly keeping the country in turmoil. 

Without addressing Hezbollah’s role, any ceasefire will merely be a temporary pause in a cycle of violence that continues to harm the Lebanese people.