Israeli Forces Remain in Lebanon Despite Withdrawal Deadline Passed

Israeli military forces have pulled out from several towns in southern Lebanon but remain stationed in five key locations, creating friction as the Lebanese government insists on complete withdrawal under a ceasefire deal.

Israeli troops have completed their withdrawal from numerous towns and villages in southern Lebanon, a move that the Lebanese government views as significant given the ceasefire agreement that was instituted to end a 13-month conflict with Hezbollah. However, the situation remains tense as Israeli forces continue to occupy five "strategic" hilltops along the border, in defiance of the set withdrawal deadline that passed on Tuesday.

The ceasefire, which was negotiated by the US and France, stipulated mutual withdrawal and the deployment of Lebanese forces to replace Hezbollah in the region, a group that has held significant influence. Despite this, the Israeli military announced their intention to remain in these locations until the Lebanese army fully adheres to the terms of the agreement.

The Lebanese government responded firmly, labeling Israel's ongoing presence as an occupation and demanding full and immediate withdrawal. They declared that any Israeli soldiers remaining on Lebanese soil would be viewed as violating the terms of the truce.

Earlier on the same day, Lebanese soldiers moved into areas previously occupied by Israeli forces, clearing out roadblocks and searching for unexploded ordnance. Residents returned to their homes, adorned with the yellow flag of Hezbollah, still grappling with the aftermath of the extensive destruction caused by the conflict.

In Kfar Kila, a border town, the devastation was evident as families sifted through the ruins of their homes searching for salvaged belongings. One resident, Safaa Jouma, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of her home and her brother, who was killed in the war.

The ceasefire demands that Israel withdraw and allow Lebanese armed forces to replace all military groups south of the Litani River. Notably, Israel's withdrawal had already been delayed from an earlier deadline that had been expected to coincide with the end of January.

The positions occupied by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are located in rugged mountainous areas right along the internationally recognized border. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar described the IDF's deployment as temporary yet essential for national security. He emphasized that Israel will continue its operations against Hezbollah to prevent any escalation reminiscent of the violent clashes that erupted on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel.

The conflict has left a profound impact on both sides, with the Lebanese reporting thousands of civilian casualties and large-scale displacement, while Israel has also faced significant losses. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can restore peace in the volatile region.