Official announcements from the Israeli government, Hezbollah, and international mediators

Israel Extends Military Presence in Southern Lebanon Beyond 60-Day Ceasefire, Cites Hezbollah and UNIFIL Violations

Jan 5, 2025, 10:25 AM

Israel has informed the United States and other ceasefire observers that it will not withdraw its military forces from southern Lebanon within the agreed 60-day period, as stipulated in the ceasefire deal with Hezbollah. The Israeli Broadcasting Authority reported that Israel plans to extend its troop presence in the region, citing the Lebanese army's failure to fully deploy as per the agreement. Israel has also accused Hezbollah of not adhering to the terms of the ceasefire, specifically not withdrawing beyond the Litani River. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has warned that if Hezbollah does not comply with the ceasefire terms, including a complete withdrawal beyond the Litani River, disarmament, and the dismantling of its infrastructure by the Lebanese Army, Israel will be forced to act independently. The UN peacekeeping force, UNIFIL, has accused Israel of violating the ceasefire by destroying a blue barrel marking the withdrawal line and a Lebanese army observation tower, actions it deems a flagrant violation of international law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701.