An Israeli airstrike killed one person in Sidon, Lebanon, on February 17, 2025, prior to a ceasefire deadline between Israel and Hizbollah. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is urging for pressure on Israel for troop withdrawal as investigations into the strike continue. The agreement includes positioning Lebanese military and UN peacekeepers in the south, while Hizbollah is expected to relocate north and dismantle military assets.
Lebanese official media reported that an Israeli airstrike claimed the life of one individual in Sidon on February 17, 2025, just before a critical truce deadline between Israel and Hizbollah. The Lebanese President, Joseph Aoun, has called for pressure on Israel to withdraw by the stipulated deadline amid ongoing hostilities. First responders retrieved the body from a vehicle hit in the strike, with investigations underway to determine the victim’s identity.
Since November 27, a ceasefire has been in effect following extensive military conflict, including a two-month war that saw Israeli ground operations in Lebanon. The current agreement entails the deployment of Lebanon’s military alongside UN peacekeepers as Israeli forces withdraw over a newly extended timeframe concluding on February 18. Hizbollah is also required to relocate north of the Litani River and dismantle any military assets in southern Lebanon.
In response to violations, Aoun stated, “We are continuing contacts… to push Israel to respect the agreement and to withdraw on the scheduled date.” He insisted that sponsors of the ceasefire must fulfill their responsibilities. Hizbollah’s leader, Naim Qassem, emphasized that it is the Lebanese government’s duty to ensure compliance with the withdrawal timeline.
Israel’s military operations have reportedly targeted Hizbollah positions in Lebanon, indicating continued tensions. Concurrently, allegations have emerged regarding Israel’s treatment of civilian infrastructure, which may hinder residents’ return. As discussions unfold, observers suggest there may exist implicit agreements regarding the extension of military presence in the region, as articulated by experts on Middle Eastern affairs.
Concerns have been raised about the potential consequences of ongoing Israeli operations, with Human Rights Watch cautioning regarding the difficult conditions that prevent many people from returning to their homes. The situation remains fluid, with various stakeholders involved in brokering peace and monitoring compliance with ceasefire conditions.
The recent Israeli strike in Sidon, which resulted in one death, underscores the fragility of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hizbollah. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts by Lebanese officials, tensions remain high, and allegations of violations of civilian safety continue to emerge. As the February 18 deadline approaches, the situation in southern Lebanon requires close monitoring amidst complex geopolitical dynamics.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
