Israel and Hezbollah recently marked the cessation of a year-long conflict with a ceasefire agreement brokered, in part, by the United States. The accord, which took effect in November, mandated that Israel withdraw its military presence from Lebanese population centers by February 18. Although the Israeli military has vacated several areas in recent days, it continues to maintain troops at five posts in southern Lebanon, defying the withdrawal deadline set for Tuesday.
The Lebanese military responded early Tuesday morning by announcing new deployments to various towns in southern Lebanon. This move underscores the urgency of reclaiming control over territories previously occupied by Israeli forces. The speaker of Lebanon's parliament, Nabih Berri, has called for a firm governmental stance against Israel's continued presence, emphasizing that Lebanon rejects Israel's plan to remain in occupied areas beyond the agreed timeline.
"means that the Israelis will practice freedom of movement and aggression in Lebanon, and this is unacceptable." – Nabih Berri
In contrast, Israel accuses the Lebanese government of not fulfilling its obligations under the ceasefire agreement. According to Israeli officials, Lebanon has failed to adequately deploy its forces south of the Litani River, a critical area identified in the agreement. Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers assured that the Lebanese Armed Forces "will control all population centers in the Southern Litani Area before next Tuesday," highlighting their readiness to reclaim control over these regions.
"will control all population centers in the Southern Litani Area before next Tuesday." – Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers
The conflict's origins trace back to October 2023, when Hezbollah attacked Israel in solidarity with Hamas, forcing approximately 60,000 Israelis from their homes in northern regions. The skirmishes left border towns devastated by rocket fire, with few residents returning due to ongoing instability. While efforts continue to dismantle Hezbollah's infrastructure in southern Lebanon, this has resulted in significant destruction of local towns.
Despite the ceasefire, tensions have persisted as the Israeli military continues to bomb Hezbollah targets, citing violations of the November agreement. Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani justified Israel's decision to keep troops stationed at strategic points along the border as necessary for safeguarding Israeli residents and addressing imminent threats.
“so we can continue to defend our residents and to make sure there’s no immediate threat,” – Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani
“Based on the current situation, we will leave small amounts of troops deployed temporarily in five strategic points along the border,” – Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani
As diplomatic discussions unfold, France has stepped forward with a proposal to introduce United Nations peacekeepers as replacements for Israeli forces at key sites in Lebanon. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has communicated this plan as part of international efforts to stabilize the region.
The United States, however, has remained ambiguous about whether Israel will honor its commitment to withdraw completely from occupied areas. This uncertainty adds an additional layer of complexity to an already precarious situation.
"no excuses" for Israel’s failure to withdraw. – Naim Qassem
