Hezbollah Calls for Timely Withdrawal of Israeli Forces from Southern Lebanon

The ongoing situation in Lebanon has garnered significant attention following the demands made by Hezbollah regarding the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. This request is a crucial aspect of the ceasefire deal established between the two parties. The ceasefire, mediated by France and the United States, marked an end to over a year of intense conflict.

In November, both Hezbollah and Israel agreed to a ceasefire, which included specific terms for military withdrawal. This agreement stipulated that Israeli forces would pull out from Lebanon while Hezbollah would also withdraw its troops from the southern region within a 60-day timeframe, concluding on January 26.

Despite the ceasefire agreement, uncertainty looms over the implementation of the withdrawal. On Thursday, Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer refrained from answering questions regarding whether Israel sought an extension of the withdrawal period. He did not clarify whether Israeli forces would remain in Lebanon beyond the agreed deadline.

Al Jazeera’s reporter in Beirut, Zeina Khodr, provided insights regarding the situation. She reported that the Israeli ambassador to the United States indicated that discussions were underway with the Trump administration to persuade the US to approve an extension of the deadline for at least another month. Khodr emphasized, “Israeli officials are talking about staying in Lebanon, which would be in violation of the ceasefire agreement to pull out by January 26.”

Hezbollah has reacted strongly to the possibility of Israeli forces remaining in Lebanon. Khodr noted that the group suggested it might resume military actions if Israeli soldiers continued their presence, labeling them as an occupying force and mentioning that there would be “resistance.”

Hezbollah reiterated its stance on Thursday, insisting on the necessity for Israel to complete its withdrawal from Lebanon as the 60-day period of the ceasefire deal nears its end. The group warned that any violation of the agreement would be intolerable.

French President Emmanuel Macron also weighed in on the issue, stating earlier this month while in Beirut with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, “We need a total withdrawal of the Israeli army.” This statement reflects the international community’s support for a complete withdrawal, which is essential for maintaining peace in the region.

The Lebanese government has conveyed its concerns to US mediators, indicating that a failure by Israel to withdraw on time could complicate the deployment of the Lebanese army. Such a situation would hinder diplomatic efforts and undermine the positive atmosphere in Lebanon, especially since President Aoun’s election on January 9.

Ali Fayyad, a Hezbollah lawmaker, expressed serious concerns on January 20, stating that failure to withdraw would push all Lebanese citizens into a new phase of confronting the Israeli occupation using “all possible means and tools to force it from our land.”

• Ceasefire Agreement: Established in November with terms for withdrawal.
• Deadline: 60-day withdrawal period ending on January 26.
• Israeli Discussions: Talks with the US to extend the deadline for withdrawal.
• Hezbollah’s Stance: Possible military action if Israeli forces remain.
• International Support: Calls from French President Macron for total withdrawal.
• Lebanese Government Concerns: Delayed withdrawal complicating diplomatic efforts.
• Hezbollah’s Warning: New phase of resistance if Israeli forces do not withdraw.

The situation remains tense as both parties navigate the delicate dynamics following the ceasefire. Observers are closely monitoring developments in the region, particularly as the deadline approaches and the potential for renewed conflict looms. The decisions made in the coming days will be critical in shaping the future of Lebanese-Israeli relations and the stability of the region as a whole.

In conclusion, the demand for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon is a pivotal issue that could determine the course of action for both Hezbollah and the Israeli government. As the January 26 deadline approaches, the international community and regional stakeholders continue to advocate for a peaceful resolution, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the terms of the ceasefire agreement.