The Israeli military plans to keep troops in five locations in southern Lebanon after a deadline for full withdrawal has passed, raising concerns of escalating violence in the region. A cease-fire reached in November allowed for Lebanese military control but has been strained by sporadic violence since. Despite mediation efforts and a deadline extension, Israel's presence continues, with military officials citing ongoing threats from Hezbollah. This decision may hinder the return of Lebanese civilians, creating ominous prospects for future conflict as tensions remain high along the border, especially after recent airstrikes.
We will leave small amounts of troops deployed temporarily in five strategic points along the border in Lebanon so we can continue to defend our residents.
Hezbollah had long dominated the region, while Israel had captured large parts of it after invading Lebanon in September.
The truce has frequently been punctured by bursts of violence including an Israeli airstrike on Monday that killed a Hamas leader in southern Lebanon.
Now, the specter of renewed conflict looms once more after the Israeli military announced that it will keep some troops in Lebanon beyond the Feb. 18 deadline.
Collection
[
|
...
]