Israel has defied a ceasefire agreement with Lebanon by keeping troops in five locations along the border, raising fears of a new long-term occupation. The agreement, which came into effect on November 27, required Israel to withdraw its army from southern Lebanon on January 26.
However, Israeli troops stayed in several Lebanese villages beyond the deadline and now claim that they will remain in “five strategic points” until the Lebanese army implements its side of the deal. Lebanon’s government has opposed any lingering Israeli presence on its territory, with President Joseph Aoun saying the country cannot be trusted.
Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shia group, has also called for Israel to withdraw from Lebanon and warned that it will consider any remaining troops as an occupying force. The US and European diplomats have struck a conciliatory tone, proposing solutions such as UN peacekeepers replacing Israeli troops in the border locations.
International law scholars argue over whether Israel’s actions are legal or not. Some say that the ceasefire stipulates that Israel should withdraw from Lebanon after 60 days, but others claim that Israel may have a legal basis to stay if it can demonstrate that its presence is temporary and does not harm the agreement’s overall purpose.
As tensions remain high, both sides seem determined to maintain their positions. The situation remains precarious, with potential for further conflict or diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/2/18