Israeli Forces Extend Stay in Southern Lebanon Beyond Ceasefire Deadline
Israeli forces will remain in southern Lebanon beyond the 60-day deadline outlined in a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, the office of the Israeli Prime Minister announced on Friday. The extension comes as the terms of the agreement have not been fully implemented.
The ceasefire deal, which took effect on November 27, required Hezbollah to remove its weapons and fighters from areas south of the Litani River. In return, Israeli troops were to withdraw as the Lebanese military deployed in the region—all within a 60-day timeframe set to expire this Sunday at 4 a.m.
“The withdrawal process is contingent on the Lebanese army deploying in southern Lebanon and fully enforcing the agreement, while Hezbollah withdraws beyond the Litani,” the statement from the Prime Minister’s office read. “Since the ceasefire agreement has not yet been fully enforced by the Lebanese state, the gradual withdrawal process will continue, in full coordination with the United States.”
The announcement did not specify how much longer Israeli forces would remain in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military reported ongoing operations in the area, including seizing Hezbollah weapons and dismantling infrastructure used by the group.
Hezbollah officials have not issued an immediate response. However, a statement released on Thursday emphasized that any delay in the Israeli withdrawal would be an unacceptable breach of the agreement, urging the Lebanese state to act accordingly. “The state must deal with such a violation through all means and methods guaranteed by international charters,” the statement said.
The Israeli military confirmed its continued presence in southern Lebanon, stating that it operates “in accordance with the ceasefire understandings between Israel and Lebanon.” Recent military actions include strikes against Hezbollah weapons storage facilities and observation posts.
The United States weighed in on the situation, with a White House spokesperson emphasizing the need for a “short, temporary ceasefire extension.” National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes stated, “We are pleased that the IDF has started the withdrawal from the central regions, and we continue to work closely with our regional partners to finalize the extension.”
Israel’s campaign against Hezbollah aims to secure the return of citizens who were displaced by rocket fire into northern Israel. The conflict has inflicted significant damage on Hezbollah, including the loss of fighters and destruction of its arsenal.
Regional dynamics have further shifted with the situation in Syria. The ongoing conflict there has affected Hezbollah’s supply routes and alliances. Observers note that these developments may impact the group’s capabilities and strategies in the region.
