Israel Seeks 30-Day Extension for Lebanon Withdrawal, Citing Hezbollah Violations

Jan 24, 2025, 12:29 PM

Israel has announced that it will not complete its withdrawal of troops from southern Lebanon by the Sunday deadline set under the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon, citing that the agreement has not been fully enforced by Lebanon. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office officially stated that the withdrawal process will continue beyond the 60-day period and will be coordinated with the United States. Israel is seeking a 30-day extension due to Hezbollah's violations and the Lebanese army's failure to fully deploy in the south. The ceasefire agreement allows for an extension if Lebanese forces are not fully deployed and Hezbollah has not retreated beyond the Litani River as required. Israel communicated its intentions to the U.S., but the Trump administration is reportedly pushing for the Israel Defense Forces to adhere to the Sunday exit deadline. There is concern that the delay could lead to a resumption of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.