The Hebrew-language newspaper Israel Hayom revealed that “Israel” is considering maintaining a military presence in several strategic points in southern Lebanon, even after the 60-day deadline outlined in the agreement for the Israeli army to withdraw back to the international border line.
On Sunday, the newspaper reported that the possibility of an Israeli presence in southern Lebanon has been discussed in recent high-level meetings between political and security leaders.
According to the report, the primary reason is the incomplete deployment of the Lebanese army in the south. Additionally, Hezbollah’s weapons and infrastructure remain visible in the region, alongside the party’s efforts to rebuild its strength with alleged Iranian support.
Hezbollah’s Role in Southern Lebanon
The newspaper claimed that Hezbollah is pressuring the Lebanese army to avoid deploying in southern Lebanon, allegedly to create a vacuum that the party’s forces could fill in the future.
The report also noted that discussions about keeping Israeli forces in southern Lebanon would involve coordination with both the current and incoming U.S. administrations, given that the withdrawal deadline falls after President Trump’s inauguration.
Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
On November 27, Hezbollah and the Israeli occupation state reached a ceasefire agreement. Key provisions of the agreement included:
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- Gradual Israeli withdrawal to the southern side of the Blue Line, separating Lebanon and Israel, within 60 days.
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- Deployment of Lebanese military and security forces along the border, crossing points, and the southern region.
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- Exclusive authority for the Lebanese army to carry weapons in the south, dismantling military infrastructure and confiscating unauthorized weapons.
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- Establishment of a committee to monitor and assist in implementing these commitments.
Casualties and Violations of the Ceasefire
The Israeli aggression on Lebanon has resulted in 4,063 martyrs and 16,663 wounded, including a significant number of children and women. Additionally, nearly 1.4 million people have been displaced. Most casualties and displacements were recorded following the escalation of aggression on September 23.
Since the ceasefire agreement was reached, there have been 330 recorded violations by Israeli forces, leading to the martyrdom of 32 individuals and the injury of 38 others.
