The Israeli forces have put up powerful searchlights along parts of the border with Lebanon as surveillance has been intensified in response to the increasing reports that Syrian army units are in Lebanon in the guise of Al Saiqa terrorists. The Syrian units are mainly artillery and anti-aircraft forces.
The latest report is that these units are positioned south of the Litani River near Tyre with the apparent objective of cutting off supplies for leftist elements in Lebanon to force them to accept the cease-fire.
Previously, Israel had considered the stationing of Syrian troops south of the Litani River as a cause for Israeli intervention since the southern region of Lebanon could provide a springboard for action against Israel. However, Israeli intervention is not being planned at this time because, while the Syrian force is large, its main aim is seen as enforcing a cease-fire within Lebanon and not as a threatening move against Israel.
An Israeli intervention into Lebanon is seen now as coming only if there is a massive entry of Syrian troops into that country or if Syrian troops are stationed along the Lebanese-Israeli border. Meanwhile, Israeli vantage points report there is little troop movement in Lebanon near the border and farmers have been seen tilling their fields again.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
