IDF disperses Lebanese protestors who cross border
IDF forces from the Northern Command fired tear gas at Lebanese protestors who crossed the border Saturday near Kibbutz Manara to demonstrate against reports of alleged Israeli 'spying equipment' being installed in Lebanon; protestors were pushed back into Lebanese territory.
The protestors attempted to cross the border near the area of Kibbutz Manara and were eventually dispersed by IDF forces firing tear gas.
Protestors from the village of Meiss Ej Jabal became agitated over reports of IDF forces installing spying equipment, apparently, in the village.
The IDF confirmed that several dozen Lebanese citizens managed to cross the border and were pushed back.
The protest comes amid the backdrop of diplomatic spat between Lebanese President Michel Aoun and Israel over a letter sent by Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, to the UN Security Council and Secretary-General, António Guterres.
The letter was sent following an interview with Aoun in which he said that Hezbollah should be armed in order to compliment the Lebanese Army's ability to confront Israel.
Aoun attacked Israel, saying, "Every Israeli attempt to harm Lebanese sovereignty or endanger the Lebanese people—will be answered with the appropriate response," said Aoun. "What was sent in the letter by the Israeli ambassador poses a threat to Lebanon. The international community should be wary of Israel's aggressive intentions toward Lebanon."
