In a recent development, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israeli troops will remain in \"five positions\" within south Lebanon beyond the previously established pullout deadline. This decision underscores Israel's commitment to maintaining a buffer zone and ensuring security against any potential violations by Hezbollah.
Katz stated, \"The military will remain in a buffer zone in Lebanon with five control positions and will continue to act forcefully and uncompromisingly against any Hezbollah violation.\" This statement follows the expiration of the extended February 18 deadline for Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon, as per the truce agreement brokered by Washington in November.
The original truce allowed for a 60-day withdrawal period, during which Israeli forces conducted a ground offensive against Hezbollah starting in early October. Although the deadline was extended, officials anticipated that a portion of Israeli troops would remain near the Lebanese border to monitor and respond to any provocations.
The ongoing conflict has had significant humanitarian impacts, with tens of thousands displaced from northern Israel due to Hezbollah rocket fire, and over a million people in Lebanon fleeing Israeli air strikes amid the prolonged hostilities that coincide with the Gaza conflict.
Hezbollah has declared that the remaining Israeli forces in Lebanon will be regarded as an occupying presence, reminiscent of the 22-year occupation that ended in 2000 following sustained attacks by Hezbollah. This latest escalation has seen intense exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah, particularly around the border regions, with Israel intensifying its military efforts in September by targeting Hezbollah's leadership and deploying ground troops into southern Lebanon.
The situation remains tense as both sides prepare for potential further developments in this enduring conflict.
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Israel confirms troops to remain at 'five positions' in south Lebanon
cgtn.com
