Israeli troops have withdrawn from southern Lebanon towns but remain in five locations, deemed a ceasefire violation by Lebanon. The truce brokered by the US and France is under strain, as Israeli military insists these positions are crucial for security amid ongoing hostilities with Hezbollah. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement on both sides.
Israeli troops have withdrawn from towns and villages in southern Lebanon, but continue to occupy five strategic locations near the border, which the Lebanese government claims violates a ceasefire agreement. This withdrawal marks the end of a deadline set as part of a truce that ended 13 months of conflict with Hezbollah, facilitated by the US and France. The ceasefire also called for the removal of Hezbollah forces and the deployment of Lebanese military personnel to these areas.
Despite the withdrawal, the Israeli military has stated its forces will remain at these five key hilltops until the Lebanese army fully enforces the terms of the agreement. The duration of this presence is currently uncertain, with Lebanese officials asserting the need for a complete Israeli departure, considering any ongoing presence as occupation. Meanwhile, Lebanese troops are moving into areas previously held by Israeli forces, clearing debris, and searching for unexploded ordnance.
The ceasefire outlines Israel’s obligation to withdraw from Lebanon and for Lebanese soldiers to eliminate all armed groups south of the Litani River, located about 30 kilometers from Israel. Initially, Israel delayed its withdrawal from an earlier 60-day deadline that ended on January 26. The areas where Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) remain are characterized by challenging mountainous terrain at the internationally recognized border.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar explained that the IDF remains in these strategic positions for security purposes, emphasizing a commitment to ongoing enforcement against Hezbollah. Saar cautioned against returning to pre-conflict conditions, referencing the serious escalation initiated by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which led to Hezbollah’s retaliation. This conflict inflicted significant casualties on Lebanese civilians and Israeli soldiers alike.
The toll of the conflict has been devastating, with Lebanese authorities reporting nearly 4,000 civilian casualties and mass displacement. Conversely, Israel faced losses of over 80 soldiers and roughly 47 civilian deaths. While many displaced Lebanese have returned to their homes, only a small proportion of displaced Israelis have managed the same, underscoring the ongoing humanitarian impact of the situation.
In summary, while Israeli forces have pulled back from many areas in southern Lebanon, their continued presence in strategic locations raises tensions and accusations of ceasefire violations. The truce, intended to end a protracted conflict with Hezbollah, is under pressure as moves are made towards full enforcement, which involves significant troop deployments from both sides. The aftermath of the conflict presents a complicated humanitarian crisis, highlighting severe losses and continuing instability.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
