Israel delays withdrawal from Southern Lebanon amid security concerns

The Israeli army remains deployed in southern Lebanon as of Sunday, despite the expiration of the 60-day withdrawal deadline agreed upon in a ceasefire deal with Hezbollah. 

Under the terms of the agreement, which ended two months of conflict on November 27, Israeli forces were expected to complete their withdrawal by January 26, leaving only the Lebanese Army and UN peacekeepers (UNIFIL) in the area.

While Israel has evacuated the coastal regions of southern Lebanon, its forces continue to operate in areas further east. Meanwhile, Hezbollah, weakened by the war, is required to withdraw its forces north of the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers from the Israeli border, and dismantle all remaining military infrastructure in the south.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that the withdrawal process would continue beyond the January 26 deadline.

"Since the ceasefire agreement has not been fully implemented by Lebanon, the phased withdrawal will continue in coordination with the United States," the statement said. It emphasized that Israel would not "endanger its communities and citizens" in the northern region, citing violations of the agreement by the Lebanese Army and Hezbollah.

Israeli forces are reportedly continuing to search for weapons stockpiles and tunnels near the border, which pose potential security threats.

Despite the ceasefire agreement, Hezbollah militants remain in certain areas of southern Lebanon, raising concerns about compliance with the accord. Israel insists on ensuring that the region is fully cleared of Hezbollah’s military infrastructure before completing its withdrawal.

Israel has stated that it has no intention of occupying any part of Lebanese territory but seeks to ensure that the border area does not pose a security threat.

"Once the region is fully cleared, the Israeli army will leave the sector," an Israeli official confirmed.

The withdrawal process is being closely monitored by the United States, which is acting as a key mediator in the implementation of the agreement.