Muslim Scholars Union Warns of Israeli Efforts to Instigate Sectarian Conflict in Lebanon

BEIRUT (AP) — The International Union of Muslim Scholars issued a stark warning on Sunday, accusing the Israeli regime of attempting to draw Lebanon into internal war and sectarian strife amid ongoing cross-border aggression.

The union, a coalition of religious leaders, stated that Israel is actively working to sow discord within Lebanese society. The statement comes as tensions remain high along the border following weeks of intensified military exchanges.

"The Israeli regime is seeking to destabilize Lebanon from within," the union said in a press release. "Their strategy involves exploiting existing societal fractures to ignite a civil conflict that would serve their strategic interests."

The warning follows a period of escalated violence between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group backed by Iran. Recent strikes have targeted infrastructure in southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah has launched rocket fire into northern Israel. The conflict has displaced thousands of civilians on both sides of the border.

Lebanon has long struggled with internal political divisions and economic instability. The union's statement suggests that external actors are attempting to exacerbate these vulnerabilities. Religious leaders in the country have frequently called for national unity in the face of external threats.

The Israeli military has not commented directly on the union's accusations. However, Israeli officials have previously stated that their operations are aimed at dismantling Hezbollah's military capabilities and preventing further attacks on Israeli civilians.

Analysts note that Lebanon's fragile political system makes it particularly susceptible to external manipulation. The country's parliament is currently deadlocked over key government appointments, and the economy remains in a severe crisis.

The union called on Lebanese political leaders and the public to remain vigilant against attempts to divide the nation. "We must not fall into the trap of sectarianism," the statement read. "Our unity is our strongest defense."

The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts continue to seek a ceasefire. The United Nations and regional mediators are working to de-escalate tensions, but no agreement has been reached.

Questions remain about the extent of any coordinated efforts to incite internal conflict within Lebanon. The union's warning adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile regional situation.

As of Sunday evening, no new incidents of internal violence linked to the union's claims have been reported. However, the risk of escalation remains high as military operations continue along the border.

The International Union of Muslim Scholars has a history of issuing statements on regional conflicts, often calling for peace and stability. Their latest intervention underscores the growing concern among religious and civil society leaders about the potential for the conflict to spill over into Lebanon's internal affairs.

With no immediate resolution in sight, the focus remains on preventing further escalation and protecting civilians on both sides of the border.