Israel has refused to withdraw its troops from Southern Lebanon after the ceasefire deadline ended on February 18. Israel is in no mood to leave the five strategic locations in Southern Lebanon. The Lebanese government has expressed its displeasure. On the other hand, uncertainty prevails over the ceasefire in Gaza as the United States and Israel have made contradictory statements on the issue.
As per the US agreement, the Israeli troops are supposed to leave from the buffer zone in southern Lebanon. The zone had to be patrolled by the Lebanese forces and the United Nations Peacekeeping. Israeli spokesperson Lt. Col. Nodav Shoshani said Israel will ensure the security of its citizens and it is committed to return.
Shoshani wrote on X, “500 days have passed since Hamas started this war with the Oct 7 Massacre. Over 1,200 Israelis were murdered and 250+ were kidnapped. Today, 73 hostages are still held captive in Gaza. We will not rest until every one of our hostages is brought home.”
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said the ceasefire deadline should be respected and “Israel cannot be trusted.” On Sunday , Hezbollah leader Naik Qaseem said the Israeli troops should leave southern Lebanon and no excuse will be allowed in this regard.
