Israel has rejected a French plan to quickly withdraw its troops from southern Lebanon, opting to maintain its presence in critical areas. The U.S. backs this decision, and Israel seeks a ten-day extension to its withdrawal deadline, which has been contested by Lebanese officials. Tensions remain high, especially concerning Hezbollah’s activities in the region.
Israel has dismissed a French proposal intended to hasten its withdrawal from southern Lebanon through the deployment of UNIFIL forces and the French military. The plan aims to replace Israeli forces in specific areas ahead of a rapidly approaching withdrawal deadline. According to the Jerusalem Post, Israel intends to maintain its military presence in these five strategic locations rather than comply with the French initiative.
Reports from Israel’s Broadcasting Corporation indicated that the United States supports a prolonged Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon. Sources cited by Reuters revealed that Israel has sought a 10-day extension of the current deadline, originally set for 18 February, which could extend its military operation until 28 February. Additionally, a Saudi media report suggested that there was an agreement to extend Israeli forces’ stay for at least another month, a claim denied by Lebanese officials, including President Joseph Aoun, who reiterated Lebanon’s opposition to any extension.
Furthermore, a report by Al-Akhbar newspaper indicated that Lebanon has also rejected the French proposal and opposes any amendments to the mandate governing UNIFIL. Israeli Channel 12 previously reported that Israel desires to preserve its military presence at five border points in southern Lebanon to establish a buffer zone, seeking U.S. support for a new extension.
The ongoing U.S.-led tripartite mechanism responsible for ceasefire oversight convened in Naqoura on 14 February for its fifth session. Major General Jasper Jeffers, co-chair of the mechanism, communicated optimism about the Lebanese Armed Forces’ capacity to control all villages in the Southern Litani Area before the 18 February deadline, while emphasizing continuous engagement for full implementation beyond that date.
The ceasefire agreement, per UN Resolution 1701, mandated the Lebanese armed forces to eliminate Hezbollah’s infrastructure south of the Litani River within 60 days, concluding on 26 January. However, Israel contended that the Lebanese army failed to adequately execute these responsibilities and consequently requested an extension until 18 February. Israeli reports also indicated concerns about Hezbollah’s intentions to reestablish its presence near the border following the Israeli withdrawal. Tragically, during the period of escalating tensions, Israeli forces reportedly caused civilian casualties as Lebanese citizens returned to their home villages post-conflict.
In summary, Israel has rejected a French proposal aimed at expediting its military withdrawal from southern Lebanon, with intentions to retain a presence in five critical locations. The situation remains tense as the Israeli government has sought to extend its deadline amid concerns over Hezbollah’s potential resurgence. Continued international oversight efforts highlight ongoing complexities in the implementation of the ceasefire agreement and border security dynamics.
Original Source: thecradle.co
