Tensions Rise as Israel Delays Troop Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon, Complicating Ceasefire Agreement
the fragile peace in southern Lebanon is under strain as the Lebanese army accuses Israel of delaying it’s troop withdrawal from border areas, just days before the 60-day deadline stipulated in the ceasefire agreement expires. The agreement, brokered by the United States and France, required Israel to withdraw its forces by January 26, with the Lebanese army and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) taking over the region.However, Israel’s reluctance to comply has sparked tensions and raised concerns about the future of the truce.
The lebanese army released a statement asserting that its units have been working diligently to implement a plan to enhance deployment in the southern Litani region since the ceasefire took effect. “Our units continue to implement the plan to enhance proliferation in the southern Litani region, commissioned by the Council of Ministers, since the first day of the ceasefire agreement,” the statement read. However, the army noted that delays in Israel’s withdrawal have complex their efforts, adding, “We maintain readiness to complete our deployment as soon as the Israeli forces withdraw.”
This growth follows an announcement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office,which claimed that the Lebanese state had not fully applied the agreement,justifying the continued presence of Israeli forces beyond the January 26 deadline. ”No time has been steadfast for the survival of its forces,” the office stated, leaving the timeline for withdrawal uncertain.
adding to the tension, Israeli forces reportedly advanced into five areas in southern Lebanon yesterday morning and carried out a bombing, according to the Lebanese national Media Agency. This move has further strained relations and raised questions about Israel’s commitment to the ceasefire.
Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister, Naguib Mikati, has been in contact with the new American administration, warning of the dangers of Israel circumventing the ceasefire terms. A Lebanese goverment source revealed that Mikati emphasized the need to respect the withdrawal deadline, stating, “The caretaker government warned of the danger of the Israelis trying to circumvent the request of the ceasefire and stressed the need to respect the deadline.”
Meanwhile, the humanitarian impact of the delayed withdrawal is becoming increasingly evident. Residents of southern villages and towns remain displaced, with the National Media Agency reporting that displaced individuals received warnings from Israeli forces not to return to their homes until further notice. The Lebanese army has also urged caution, advising people to avoid southern border areas due to the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance.”Our units are working to accomplish the engineering survey, open roads, and treat unexploded ammunition,” the army stated.
Key Developments at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Ceasefire Deadline | January 26, 2025 |
| Israeli Withdrawal | Delayed, with no clear timeline provided |
| Lebanese Army Deployment | Ongoing, but hindered by Israel’s delayed withdrawal |
| Recent Israeli Actions | Advanced into 5 areas in southern Lebanon and conducted a bombing |
| Humanitarian Impact | Displaced residents warned not to return; landmines and unexploded ordnance pose risks |
The situation remains fluid, with both sides seemingly at odds over the implementation of the ceasefire agreement. As the deadline looms, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that ensures stability and safety for the people of southern Lebanon.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to our coverage.
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