Israel has postponed its withdrawal from southern Lebanon for the second time, extending the deadline without a new date specified. Following a ceasefire that began on November 27, the situation remains volatile, with reports of significant ceasefire violations leading to casualties. The Israeli army has warned residents to avoid moving south and has indicated an impending redeployment in the region.
On Wednesday, Israel announced it would not meet its withdrawal deadline from southern Lebanon for the second consecutive time. Originally set for January 26 under a ceasefire agreement established on November 27, the deadline was pushed to February 18 after Israel failed to comply. The ceasefire was initiated to halt the intensified conflict with Hezbollah that erupted last September, characterized by prolonged shelling from both sides.
The Israeli military indicated that the withdrawal deadline has been postponed again but did not specify a new date. Reports state that Israel requested an extension until February 28, which the Lebanese government rejected. The nature of this extension—whether it was unilateral or agreed upon with Lebanon—remains unclear, as no immediate response from Lebanese officials has been reported.
Israeli Northern Command Major General Ori Gordin mentioned that a redeployment in Lebanon is expected next week, affirming that the withdrawal agreement would be executed, although details remain scant. The Israeli army has cautioned Lebanese residents against returning south or moving to their previous areas, stating, “Anyone moving southward is putting his life at risk.”
Since the ceasefire began, Lebanon has recorded nearly 900 violations by Israel, resulting in numerous casualties, including women and children. The ongoing tensions highlight the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the complexities of the security situation in the region.
Israel has once again postponed its withdrawal from southern Lebanon, failing to meet a stipulated deadline as the ceasefire remains precarious. The military’s unilateral extension raises questions about compliance with the ceasefire terms. With repeated ceasefire violations reported, including civilian casualties, the situation indicates unstable relations between Israel and Lebanon, necessitating keen observation as developments unfold.
Original Source: www.yenisafak.com
