Israel has announced its intention to maintain military presence in five strategic points in southern Lebanon ahead of a ceasefire deadline. Low-altitude flights over Lebanese territories have been viewed as intimidation following Lebanon’s rejection of an extension of Israeli presence. Diplomatic efforts are underway to ensure Israel’s withdrawal by February 18, while Lebanon insists on UN control of these areas.
Israel has declared its intention to maintain a military presence at five crucial high points in southern Lebanon, as a meeting of the ceasefire committee approaches. This announcement comes just days before the deadline for withdrawing Israeli forces, which have been stationed in Lebanese territory since October 1. To emphasize its stance, Israel conducted low-altitude flights over Beirut, interpreted as an intimidation tactic against Lebanon following its rejection of an extension of Israeli occupation.
In response to the ongoing tensions, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated that Lebanon is pursuing diplomatic measures to ensure Israel’s withdrawal by February 18. This includes engagement with global powers like the US and France to reach a lasting resolution. The Egyptian Foreign Minister reinforced the importance of enforcing the ceasefire and called for the full retreat of Israeli forces in his discussions with Lebanese officials.
Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer confirmed that Israel will keep control of the high points until Lebanon adheres to its commitments under the ceasefire agreement, which focuses on disarming Hezbollah rather than removing it from the border. Dermer did not specify the duration of the Israeli military presence but indicated that withdrawal is not imminent.
Ori Gordin of the Israeli Northern Command has urged for the reinforcement of Israel’s positions with support from the US and the international community. Reports suggest that the US has allowed Israel to maintain a long-term presence in certain locations in Lebanon while monitoring Hezbollah activities, although the US declined to delay the withdrawal from villages where Israeli forces have operated.
The discussions between US Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers and Israeli officials led to a postponement of the ceasefire committee’s meeting, initially set for Thursday, to Friday. Meanwhile, Lebanon dismissed a US-French proposal for joint control of the strategic positions, advocating instead for UN peacekeeping forces to work alongside the Lebanese army to manage these areas.
In summary, Israel plans to retain military control over specific strategic locations in southern Lebanon despite the upcoming ceasefire deadline, asserting this decision amid Lebanon’s diplomatic efforts for withdrawal. The situation remains tense with aerial maneuvers perceived as pressure tactics, and Lebanon’s insistence on UN involvement highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. The response from global powers and the continued involvement of the US will be critical in the unfolding situation.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
