Israel has dismissed a French proposal to accelerate its withdrawal from southern Lebanon, choosing instead to maintain its military presence in crucial areas. The US is reportedly supporting this extended presence as tensions rise over Hezbollah’s intentions. Lebanese officials have denied claims of a delayed withdrawal, contributing to the ongoing complexities of the situation.
Israel has firmly rejected a French proposal aimed at expediting the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. This proposal suggested that UNIFIL and French military forces take over certain areas currently occupied by Israeli troops. Instead, Israel has chosen to maintain its presence in the five critical locations as reported by the Jerusalem Post on February 14.
In recent statements from Israel’s Broadcasting Corporation (KAN), it was noted that the United States has expressed support for a prolonged Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon. Various sources indicate that Israel has requested a 10-day extension of the withdrawal deadline originally set for February 18, which could delay the complete withdrawal until February 28.
Moreover, a report from Saudi media suggested that Israel had reached an agreement with the US and Lebanon for an extended stay of at least a month; however, this claim was denied by Lebanese officials, including President Joseph Aoun. President Aoun confirmed Lebanon’s refusal to accept any such extension, contradicting what was reported by the Saudi Al-Hadath channel.
Additionally, a report from Al-Akhbar dated February 12 highlighted that Lebanon also rejected the French proposal and stands against any alterations to the UNIFIL mandate. Israeli news outlet Channel 12 reported on February 10 that Israel aims to sustain its military presence at five border points to create a buffer zone, seeking US support for this extension.
On February 14, the US-led tripartite mechanism responsible for overseeing the ceasefire met in Naqoura once more, marking its fifth convening. Military technical planning was underway to facilitate the transfer of villages in the Southern Litani Area to the control of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) before the February 18 deadline.
Major General Jasper Jeffers, co-chair of the US Mechanism, stated, “We have made significant progress over the last few months, and I am confident that LAF will control all population centers in the Southern Litani Area before next Tuesday.” He emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to implement the terms of the ceasefire arrangement beyond the originally specified date.
Under the ceasefire, established through UN Resolution 1701, the Lebanese army was tasked with dismantling Hezbollah’s presence south of the Litani River within 60 days, a deadline that expired on January 26. Israeli forces are also required to withdraw during this period; however, Israel claims that the Lebanese army has failed to fulfill its responsibilities, prompting its request for an extension until February 18.
As tensions escalated during this process, reports indicate that Israeli troops killed numerous Lebanese civilians returning to their homes post-displacement due to the war. Israeli sources allege that Hezbollah is poised to re-establish its presence near the border once Israeli forces withdraw, further complicating the situation.
Israel’s refusal of the French proposal to hasten its withdrawal from southern Lebanon reflects its intent to secure strategic positions in the region. The complexities surrounding this matter, including international involvement and the reactions of Lebanese officials, highlight ongoing geopolitical tensions. Furthermore, the issues concerning the duties of the Lebanese army regarding Hezbollah’s activity remain unresolved as new deadlines approach.
Original Source: thecradle.co
