The Israeli military plans to remain in Lebanon beyond the extended withdrawal deadline of February 18, despite international pressure. This decision follows the failure to adhere to a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, which was supposed to facilitate a full withdrawal by January 26. Warnings have been issued to southern Lebanese residents about not returning home due to safety concerns, amidst rising casualties and reported ceasefire violations.
The Israeli military announced it will remain in Lebanon beyond the newly extended deadline for withdrawal, despite international pressure. Israeli forces initially agreed to withdraw by January 26 as part of a ceasefire deal with Hezbollah but have since extended that timeframe to February 18, while still warning southern Lebanese residents against returning to their homes.
Avichay Adraee, the Israeli army’s Arabic spokesperson, issued an urgent warning to the people of southern Lebanon, stating, “The period of implementation of the agreement has been extended and… [Israel] is still deployed in the field, thus moving south is forbidden.” He emphasized that residents risking re-entry are in danger and further claimed that Israeli forces had “no intention of harming” them.
Despite Israel’s intent to maintain military positions beyond the ceasefire deadline, Lebanese representatives on the oversight committee have rejected a request for continued presence past February 18. Reports confirmed claims that over 80 individuals in Lebanon have been killed from Israeli strikes since the ceasefire took effect, and Lebanon has formally lodged complaints with the UN over violations including more than 830 separate instances since the agreement began.
Furthermore, the original ceasefire agreement mandated that Lebanon’s military would accompany UN peacekeepers during the Israeli withdrawal. Following significant losses during protracted conflict and failure to achieve objectives against Lebanon, Israel had little choice but to accept the ceasefire terms, which commenced on November 27. Yet, Israeli airstrikes and attacks have continued almost daily, further violating the ceasefire conditions.
In summary, the Israeli military’s decision to extend its presence in Lebanon despite the ceasefire agreement underscores ongoing tensions in the region. With substantial casualties reported and numerous violations of the ceasefire, international and local responses are critical to enforcing compliance with the terms established in the November agreement. Continued military operations from Israel raise concerns over the safety and stability of southern Lebanon, prompting regional and global scrutiny.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
