Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called on EU nations to ensure Israel’s complete withdrawal from southern Lebanon by February 18, firmly opposing any extension to Israel’s military presence. The US maintains support for the withdrawal timeline, while Israel’s request for additional time is rejected by Lebanon. Tensions continue as Israeli forces engage in military operations near the border, causing both domestic and international concern.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun urged Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel to advocate for EU pressure on Israel for its complete withdrawal from southern Lebanon by February 18. Aoun emphasized that Lebanon supports the Arab Peace Initiative while opposing any actions that could lead to Palestinian displacement or violate their rights as outlined in UN resolutions.
With only six days remaining until the withdrawal deadline, Israel has requested an extension allowing its forces to remain in certain border areas until February 28, which Lebanon firmly opposes. The committee responsible for overseeing the ceasefire and the implementation of Resolution 1701 has also been notified that Lebanon denies this request.
Morgan Ortagus, the US deputy ambassador for the Middle East, is expected to visit Beirut soon to monitor Israel’s withdrawal progress. Recently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approached President Trump, seeking to delay the withdrawal and maintain control over five strategic areas known as key hills.
In response, Lebanon proposed that UNIFIL forces coordinate with the Lebanese army for oversight in these territories. Maj. Gen. Hassan Ouda from the Lebanese army engaged in discussions with Lt. Gen. Aroldo Lazaro, UNIFIL’s commander, focusing on the enforcement of Resolution 1701’s regulations.
Lebanon’s leadership anticipates the Trump administration’s adherence to its commitment regarding the withdrawal timeline. Ortagus reaffirmed the US’s dedication to ensuring that Israel withdraws as scheduled. Meanwhile, the Israeli military’s spokesperson issued severe warnings to southern Lebanese residents about moving into areas that remain under Israeli military presence.
On the same day, Israel intensified its military operations, including airstrikes and bulldozing efforts near the border, while local reports indicated a casualty resulting from earlier Israeli fire aiming to restrict movement back to Aitaroun.
Lebanon is firmly pressing for Israel’s withdrawal from southern territories by February 18, opposing any extensions sought by Israel. The involvement of the US and UNIFIL underscores the international interest in upholding ceasefire agreements, while escalating Israeli military actions raise concerns about ongoing tensions in the region. Lebanon’s commitment to the Arab Peace Initiative remains critical to its diplomatic stance.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
