Synopsis
The Israeli army has completed its withdrawal from the western sector of southern Lebanon, allowing the Lebanese army to move in. Despite the ceasefire, tensions remain as Israel continues strikes against Hezbollah.Key Takeaways
- Israeli army withdraws from southern Lebanon.
- Lebanese army set to deploy in the area.
- Ceasefire in place since November 27, 2024.
- Israel maintains presence in nine border villages.
- Strikes against Hezbollah continue despite ceasefire.
Beirut, Feb 1 (NationPress) The Israeli army has finalized its withdrawal from the western sector of southern Lebanon, facilitating the entry of the Lebanese army into the region, a Lebanese security source reported on Saturday.
According to the source, the Israeli army continues to operate a surveillance post on Jabal Blat hill, which overlooks numerous towns and villages in the Tyre district of southern Lebanon.
The source also mentioned that the Israeli army had previously retreated from various towns in the eastern sector of southern Lebanon, yet has retained its presence in nine villages near the border.
The occupied villages, situated in the Marjayoun district, encompass Aitaroun, Blida, Mays El Jabal, Houla, Markaba, Rab al-Thalatheen, Adaisseh, Kafr Kila, and al-Wazzani, the source detailed.
As reported, Israel aims to secure a military presence in five key locations within southern Lebanon, a strategy that Lebanon strongly opposes.
A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon has been in place since November 27, 2024, concluding the hostilities that began on October 8, 2023, involving the Israeli army and Hezbollah.
Per the agreement, Israel is obligated to vacate Lebanese territory within 60 days, allowing the Lebanese army to assume control of the southern border area and enforce a prohibition on arms and armed groups south of the Litani River, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
The Lebanese caretaker government had previously declared its consent to extend the ceasefire agreement with Israel until February 18, following the initial 60-day truce that lapsed on January 26 without complete Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
Despite the ceasefire, the Israeli army has persisted in launching strikes in Lebanon, resulting in casualties, asserting that these actions are aimed at neutralizing threats posed by Hezbollah.
