IDF Withdrawal From Lebanon: A 42-day ceasefire is in force between Israel and Hamas. During this period, 33 hostages kidnapped by Hamas will be released and 737 Palestinian prisoners lodged in Israeli jails will also be released. Meanwhile, questions are being raised regarding the deployment of Israeli army in Lebanon. In fact, among the many conditions of the agreement with Hamas, there is a condition that Israeli forces will move away from the populated areas of Gaza. Although a similar agreement was made with Lebanon in November, Israeli forces are still present there.
Hebrew media outlet Ynet reported, citing an unnamed senior Israeli official, that Israel is maintaining troops in parts of southern Lebanon beyond the time limit stipulated in the ceasefire agreement signed in November.
IDF is still present in Lebanese areas
According to reports, the Israeli security cabinet received information on the ground situation during a long meeting last night regarding the withdrawal of troops from Lebanon, but could not agree on whether the government should give the green light to the IDF withdrawal or delay it for 30 days. Emphasis should be laid on expansion.
Under the terms of the ceasefire with Lebanon, the Israeli Defense Forces are required to hand over all their bases in southern Lebanon by January 26. However, Israel has reportedly requested an extension of 30 days, claiming that the Lebanese Army is deploying to the area too slowly, which would give Hezbollah time to organize.
What is the US connection behind IDF’s stay in Lebanon?
According to the Times of Israel, the current Trump administration of America does not have the same control over Israel as before, currently talks are going on between America and Israel regarding the withdrawal of troops from Lebanon. The Times of Israel, quoting a report by Army Radio, has said that US President Donald Trump wants the Israeli army to withdraw from Lebanon as soon as possible i.e. by Sunday (January 26, 2025). Whereas Trump’s predecessor Joe Biden was in favor of an extension of 30 days.
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