Metula Council Head calls ceasefire with Lebanon a 'surrender deal'
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David Azoulay's remarks echo growing frustration among Israeli officials who view the ceasefire as a capitulation to Hezbollah.
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Lebanese citizens try to enter with Lebanese soldiers a neighbourhood in the southern Lebanese village of Aitaroun, Lebanon, Monday, Jan. 27, 2025 (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein)
The Israeli KAN 11 channel reported on Monday that David Azoulay, head of the Metula Council, voiced strong criticism of the recent ceasefire agreement with Lebanon, calling it detrimental to "Israel's" security. Azoulay accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of signing a "surrender agreement" with Hezbollah, claiming it would allow the group to rebuild its strength and pose an even greater threat in the future.
Azoulay warned of the long-term implications of the deal, stating, "Residents of Kfarkela, Adaisseh, Khiam, and other southern villages will return, rebuild their homes, grow stronger again, and execute another October 7 in the north."
The ceasefire agreement, brokered by international mediators, included provisions for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and the relocation of Hezbollah fighters north of the Litani River. However, the deal's implementation has faced significant hurdles, as reports suggest continued Israeli presence and violence against Lebanese civilians attempting to return to their homes. For the second consecutive day, residents of southern Lebanon, supported by the Lebanese Armed Forces, have braved Israeli aggression to reclaim their villages and towns.
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Azoulay's remarks echo growing frustration among Israeli officials who view the ceasefire as a capitulation to Hezbollah. Many believe the agreement does little to prevent the Resistance from regaining its foothold in the south, potentially setting the stage for future conflict.
Despite these criticisms, Lebanese civilians continue their efforts to return to their homes and rebuild their lives, reflecting the resilience of communities impacted by years of aggression and displacement.
Earlier in the day, the White House announced that the ceasefire would be extended until February 18, 2025.
