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2mo ago

Israel's Ceasefire with Hezbollah Faces Renewed Strain as Deadline Looms

Tensions rise as Israel plans to retain strategic positions in southern Lebanon, delaying full withdrawal outlined in the November agreement.

Relatives and supporters of Israelis held hostage by Hamas in Gaza mark 500 days of their captivity with the numbers 500 laid out on the beach in Tel Aviv, Israel, Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)
A bulldozer equipped with a drill works on the rubble of destroyed houses, caused by the Israeli air and ground offensive, in the town of Khiam, southern Lebanon, Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
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Members of civil defence inspect a damaged car after an Israeli strike, according to security sources, at the southern port city of Sidon, Lebanon, February 17, 2025. REUTERS/Ali Hankir

Overview

  • Israel confirmed it will retain five strategic positions in southern Lebanon past the February 18 ceasefire deadline, citing security concerns and Hezbollah's incomplete withdrawal.
  • The ceasefire agreement, brokered by the U.S. and France in November, requires Israeli forces to withdraw and the Lebanese Army to deploy, but implementation has been delayed multiple times.
  • Lebanese President Joseph Aoun criticized Israel's actions, warning of potential instability and emphasizing Lebanon's commitment to diplomatic resolution.
  • Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Qassem rejected Israel's justification for staying, demanding a full withdrawal and accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire terms.
  • The conflict has already caused significant casualties and displacement, with over 20,000 killed or injured in Lebanon and 1.2 million displaced since October 2023.