Annexing Lebanon's Southern Border

Overview

In response to an unprovoked and unlawful invasion by the Hezbollah narco-terrorist organization operating from Lebanon, which directly violates international law and United Nations resolutions, Israel has undertaken necessary security measures to protect its citizens, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The invasion resulted in the displacement of over 100,000 Israeli citizens from their homes, necessitating decisive action to ensure their safe return and to prevent further acts of aggression. Southern Lebanon has long been used as a base for hostile activities against Israel, with the Lebanese government failing to exercise control or prevent terrorist threats emanating from its territory.

Policy Overview Israel will annex a defined portion of Lebanon’s southern border territory to establish a permanent security buffer zone and facilitate the resettlement of displaced Israeli citizens. This annexation is necessitated by Lebanon’s inability to prevent the exploitation of its territory by terrorist organizations and is consistent with Israel’s obligation to protect its citizens and sovereignty.

Policy Objectives

1. Establish Security and Stability:

   • Secure Israel’s northern border against future terrorist aggression.

   • Dismantle terrorist infrastructure in the annexed territory.

2. Facilitate Refugee Return:

   • Enable the safe return and resettlement of over 100,000 Israeli refugees to their homes.

   • Rebuild housing, infrastructure, and community services in affected areas.

3. Promote Regional Peace:

   • Work with international partners to establish conditions for long-term peace and security.

   • Engage with neighboring states to address broader regional security concerns.

Implementation Measures

1. Security Operations:

   • Deploy Israeli Defense Forces to secure the annexed territory and maintain order.

   • Establish clear borders and enforce demilitarization within the annexed zone.

2. Civil Administration:

   • Set up an interim civil administration to manage the annexed territory and provide essential services.

   • Collaborate with international organizations to address humanitarian needs and ensure civilian welfare.

3. Legal Framework:

   • Pass legislation formalizing the annexation and integrating the territory into Israel’s governance structure.

   • Uphold the rights of local populations while prioritizing security concerns.

4. International Engagement:

   • Advocate for international recognition of the annexation as a necessary security measure.

   • Highlight Lebanon’s failure to prevent the use of its territory for acts of aggression in diplomatic engagements.

Conclusion This policy underscores Israel’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens and upholding its sovereign right to self-defense. By annexing Lebanon’s southern border, Israel aims to neutralize terrorist threats, secure its northern border, and create conditions for displaced citizens to return home. While regrettable, this measure is a necessary response to persistent threats and a lack of viable alternatives. Israel calls on the international community to support its efforts to achieve lasting peace and security in the region.