In Lebanon, Israel is using occupation as negotiating tool, say analysts

                                                                            Analysts suggest Israel's ongoing military actions and occupation of southern Lebanese territory are a deliberate strategy to gain significant leverage in any future negotiations, despite French proposals for diplomatic intervention. The offensive, which began March 2, has caused a staggering humanitarian crisis with hundreds dead and over a million displaced, as Israel continues its military build-up. Observers indicate Israel aims to impose a new security architecture, potentially creating an unpopulated buffer zone and compelling Lebanon to negotiate its sovereignty and the disarmament of Hezbollah. This complex situation is exacerbated by deep internal divisions within Lebanon regarding negotiation tactics, with neither Israel nor Hezbollah currently showing readiness for immediate concessions.