Amid reports of delays, Israeli military presence remains a contentious issue, while Lebanon is poised to restore its territorial integrity.
Israel's Withdrawal Deadline Extended Amid Growing Tensions with Lebanon
Israel's Withdrawal Deadline Extended Amid Growing Tensions with Lebanon
Israeli forces are requesting an extension for their withdrawal from southern Lebanon, escalating concerns in a nation scarred by past occupation.
Israel is reportedly seeking a further extension of the deadline for the withdrawal of its forces from southern Lebanon, a development that has raised alarm bells in a country still reeling from its complex history of conflict and occupation. According to a Western diplomatic source, Israel hopes to maintain troop presence at five strategic locations for an additional ten days, pushing the new withdrawal date to February 28.
The ceasefire agreement that halted over a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah was painstakingly brokered by the US and France, coming into effect on November 27. This accord obligates both parties to withdraw and disarm — Hezbollah must remove its fighters and arsenal from the region while Israeli troops are mandated to exit.
Lebanon, facing the pressing need to establish control over its territory, has expressed resolute opposition to any further delay. President Joseph Aoun reiterated the necessity for Israel’s complete withdrawal, dismissing claims of a mutually agreed extension. Tensions are heightened as Lebanese forces prepare to assert authority in areas historically dominated by Hezbollah.
Despite the ceasefire, Israel has maintained its military operations against Hezbollah, indicating intent to target the Iranian-backed faction to prevent its rearmament. On Wednesday, Israeli warplanes notably broke the sound barrier over Beirut, a provocative reminder of the fragility of the ceasefire agreement.
Hezbollah, described as a multifaceted entity encompassing political, militant, and social functions, suffered significant setbacks during the latest conflict, a series of skirmishes that escalated sharply following Hamas's attacks on October 7, 2023, in solidarity with Gaza. Lebanon's authorities reported approximately 4,000 fatalities, including many civilians, and the displacement of over 1.2 million people.
Lebanon’s current government has prioritized restoring national sovereignty, firmly opposing any extensions that would prolong Israeli military presence in the country. The extension request reflects a complex interplay of regional dynamics and the long-standing tension between Israel, Lebanon, and their respective military forces.
