Lebanon calls for international pressure as Israel retains positions in south

As Israel maintains control over key positions in southern Lebanon, the government in Beirut is calling for international pressure to ensure the full implementation of the November 27 ceasefire and increased support for Lebanese security institutions.

Since the ceasefire ended the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanese Army has reinforced its presence in the south, with soldiers entering destroyed villages and dismantling remnants of Israeli military outposts. However, Israel insists on maintaining control over five strategic areas along the Lebanon-Israel border, citing security concerns.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are “temporarily remaining” in these positions, describing it as a necessary security measure to prevent future attacks by Hezbollah or allied militant groups.

“The IDF’s enforcement activities against Hezbollah will continue at full strength. We will not allow a return to the reality of 7 October 2023,” Saar said, referring to Hamas’ large-scale attack on Israeli military positions and civilians, which intensified regional security concerns.

Israel has not provided a clear timeline for withdrawal but maintains that its presence is a preventative measure rather than a long-term occupation. Israeli officials have also cited ongoing Hezbollah activity near the border as justification for holding these positions until further security guarantees are established.

The Lebanese government, however, argues that Israel’s actions violate the ceasefire agreement, which prohibits buffer zones and stipulates a negotiated end to hostilities. The agreement, mediated with American involvement, includes provisions for demarcating the Lebanon-Israel border.

Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji recently met with U.S. Ambassador Lisa Johnson to discuss Israel’s withdrawal. While Johnson did not provide a specific deadline for withdrawal, she reaffirmed Washington’s support for Lebanon’s territorial sovereignty.

On Tuesday, Lebanon escalated its diplomatic response, seeking UN Security Council intervention. President Joseph Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri, and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam issued a joint statement reaffirming Lebanon’s right to use all means necessary to secure Israel’s full withdrawal. They described Israel’s continued presence as “occupation” and stated that the Lebanese Army is ready to assume full security responsibilities along the border.

The situation is further complicated by shifts in U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump. The new administration has temporarily suspended international aid to Lebanon, citing a need for a policy review.

According to a U.S. State Department official, assistance is under revision to ensure compliance with Washington’s strategic objectives. However, U.S. military aid to the Lebanese Army remains active, with additional support expected in upcoming aid packages. This distinction suggests that while economic assistance is on hold, Washington still views Lebanon’s security forces as a key partner.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has urged a clear timeline for Israel’s full departure, warning that further delays risk destabilising the region. Reports suggest that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing internal political pressure regarding security decisions, which may be influencing the delay in withdrawal.

President Joseph Aoun has warned that failure to achieve a full Israeli withdrawal could put the ceasefire at risk. “We are afraid that a complete withdrawal will not be achieved tomorrow,” Aoun said. “The important thing is to secure Israel’s withdrawal, and Hezbollah’s weapons come as part of solutions the Lebanese agree on.”

Aoun called on the sponsors of the ceasefire deal to pressure Israel into meeting its obligations and ensuring full compliance with the agreement’s terms.

Meanwhile, displaced Lebanese citizens remain in limbo, waiting for the opportunity to return to their homes. Concerns are rising that if the Lebanese state fails to protect them, local groups may once again take security into their own hands, as they have done historically.

The diplomatic standoff over Israel’s continued presence in southern Lebanon remains unresolved, with both sides citing security concerns. While Lebanon is pushing for immediate withdrawal, Israel insists its presence is a temporary security necessity.

The U.S. policy shift under Trump, ongoing regional tensions, and the potential for UN involvement add further complexity to the situation. As diplomatic efforts continue, the risk of a renewed escalation remains a key concern.

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