Israel has officially withdrawn its forces from southern Lebanon, maintaining a presence at five strategic locations, as tensions between Israel and Hezbollah continue to simmer post-ceasefire.
Israeli Troops Maintain Footprint in Southern Lebanon After Withdrawal Deadline
Israeli Troops Maintain Footprint in Southern Lebanon After Withdrawal Deadline
Limited Israeli military presence persists in southern Lebanon despite official withdrawal completion
Israeli forces have pulled out of most areas in southern Lebanon, in line with the terms of a ceasefire that halted a year-long conflict with Hezbollah. However, according to Lebanon's state news agency, Israeli troops still occupy five positions deemed crucial for the security of northern Israel. Israeli officials assert that these locations are necessary to safeguard communities close to the border. In response, the Lebanese government has demanded a full Israeli withdrawal, pledging to view any remaining Israeli presence as an occupation.
The ceasefire agreement obligates Israel to withdraw its military while allowing Lebanese troops to take control of the region south of the Litani River, situated approximately 30 kilometers from Israel's border. Despite suffering heavy losses during the conflict, Hezbollah remains a significant force in the area, even as the group sustained substantial damage.
The recent conflict had severe humanitarian impacts, with over 3,960 casualties reported in Lebanon, predominantly among civilians, and around one million people displaced. Israeli casualties included more than 80 soldiers and 47 civilians, with 60,000 residents evacuated from northern Israel during hostilities. The United Nations reports indicate that while most Lebanese have started returning home, many Israeli citizens still await the opportunity to return.
On Tuesday, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz emphasized the temporary nature of the continued military presence in Lebanon, stating its necessity for national security. He expressed confidence that coordination with Lebanese authorities could eventually lead to the full withdrawal of Israeli forces once all terms of the agreement are fulfilled.
Meanwhile, Lebanese soldiers have begun moving into areas previously held by the IDF, clearing away obstacles and assessing the landscape for unexploded munitions. Some villagers are eager to return to their homes—even if they find them in ruins. As one resident expressed hope for rebuilding, the spirit of resilience in the area persists amidst the devastation left behind.
Israel’s initial withdrawal deadline had been extended from 60 days, which had originally fallen on January 26. In a recent social media update, Foreign Minister Katz reaffirmed commitment to countering Hezbollah, vowing to prevent any return to pre-conflict conditions. The regional strife remains unresolved, as Hezbollah claims to act in solidarity with Palestinians following unprecedented attacks originating from Gaza.
Middle EastIsraelHezbollahLebanon
The ceasefire agreement obligates Israel to withdraw its military while allowing Lebanese troops to take control of the region south of the Litani River, situated approximately 30 kilometers from Israel's border. Despite suffering heavy losses during the conflict, Hezbollah remains a significant force in the area, even as the group sustained substantial damage.
The recent conflict had severe humanitarian impacts, with over 3,960 casualties reported in Lebanon, predominantly among civilians, and around one million people displaced. Israeli casualties included more than 80 soldiers and 47 civilians, with 60,000 residents evacuated from northern Israel during hostilities. The United Nations reports indicate that while most Lebanese have started returning home, many Israeli citizens still await the opportunity to return.
On Tuesday, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz emphasized the temporary nature of the continued military presence in Lebanon, stating its necessity for national security. He expressed confidence that coordination with Lebanese authorities could eventually lead to the full withdrawal of Israeli forces once all terms of the agreement are fulfilled.
Meanwhile, Lebanese soldiers have begun moving into areas previously held by the IDF, clearing away obstacles and assessing the landscape for unexploded munitions. Some villagers are eager to return to their homes—even if they find them in ruins. As one resident expressed hope for rebuilding, the spirit of resilience in the area persists amidst the devastation left behind.
Israel’s initial withdrawal deadline had been extended from 60 days, which had originally fallen on January 26. In a recent social media update, Foreign Minister Katz reaffirmed commitment to countering Hezbollah, vowing to prevent any return to pre-conflict conditions. The regional strife remains unresolved, as Hezbollah claims to act in solidarity with Palestinians following unprecedented attacks originating from Gaza.
Middle EastIsraelHezbollahLebanon
