At UN, Israel accuses Hezbollah of trying to rebuild with Iran’s help

Lebanon’s Hezbollah is trying “to regain strength and rearm with the assistance of Iran,” Israel’s United Nations ambassador told the Security Council on Monday, declaring that the militants remain a “serious threat” to Israel and regional stability.

Updated US intelligence last month – reported by Reuters – had warned that Iran-backed Hezbollah would probably try to rebuild its stockpiles and forces, posing a long-term threat to the US and its regional allies.

Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a US-brokered 60-day ceasefire – starting on November 27 – after more than a year of conflict. The terms require the Lebanese army to deploy into south Lebanon as Israeli troops and Hezbollah withdraw forces.

Both sides have accused each other of violating the deal.

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Ceasefire in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah militants takes effect

Ceasefire in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah militants takes effect

“While Hezbollah’s military capabilities were significantly reduced during the war, they are now attempting to regain strength and rearm with the assistance of Iran,” Israel’s UN ambassador Danny Danon wrote to the 15-member Security Council.