Israeli Army Withdraws from Southern Lebanon; Presence in Five Strategic Points Continues

A Lebanese security source announced on Tuesday that the Israeli army has withdrawn from border villages in southern Lebanon but remains in five strategic positions. According to Agence France-Presse, this withdrawal occurred hours after the deadline set in the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. The source, who wished to remain anonymous, added: "The Lebanese army is gradually deploying in these areas, but due to the presence of explosives in some areas and damage to the roads, this process is proceeding cautiously." According to the ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel, mediated by Washington and Paris, the Israeli army was supposed to withdraw from southern Lebanon within 60 days, but this deadline was extended to February 18. However, just hours before the end of this deadline, the Israeli army announced that it would temporarily remain in five strategic border positions to defend Israeli residents in border areas and control potential threats. In this context, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized on Sunday that Israel would take any action necessary to implement the ceasefire and that Hezbollah must be disarmed. According to Agence France-Presse, border clashes between Hezbollah and Israel, which began in October 2023, have resulted in over 4,000 deaths in Lebanon and 78 deaths, including soldiers, inside Israel. Additionally, 56 Israeli soldiers have been killed in ground operations in southern Lebanon. According to United Nations reports, over 100,000 people have been displaced in Lebanon, and the cost of rebuilding war-torn areas is estimated to exceed $10 billion. Despite the widespread devastation, thousands of displaced Lebanese have been waiting to return to their homes since the ceasefire was established on November 27. Some municipalities in border areas, including Mais al-Jabal, have asked people to refrain from returning until the full deployment of the Lebanese army to ensure their safety. Lebanon emphasized in a statement on Monday that only the government of the country should bear responsibility for weapons—a statement that indirectly refers to the need to disarm Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Ramzi Kays, a member of Human Rights Watch, stated that the extensive destruction has made it impossible for many residents to return to their homes. According to Agence France-Presse, despite the gradual withdrawal of Israel, concerns remain about the future stability of southern Lebanon and the status of Hezbollah.