Lebanese Troops Arrive at Border
Church bells rang, drivers honked their horns and women offered sweets and kisses to soldiers Wednesday as Lebanese security forces moved into southern Lebanon for the first time in about 20 years.
But the arrival of a mere 1,000 soldiers and police officers did not convince officials in neighboring Israel that there would be peace along the border.
The Lebanese force’s commander, police Brig. Gen. Nazih Abi Nader, said his men would not take up positions at Fatima Gate, the closed crossing point that has been the scene of stone-throwing and occasional shots since Israel withdrew its troops May 24.
Israel had occupied southern Lebanon for 22 years as a buffer against cross-border attacks.
Israeli Deputy Defense Minister Ephraim Sneh said the Lebanese forces aren’t enough to contain the Muslim guerrillas who took over southern Lebanon in the wake of the pullout.
Guerrillas could be seen having breakfast at Fatima Gate. Elsewhere, however, they kept a low profile, in compliance with pledges to recognize the Lebanese government’s authority.
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