Israeli Troops Remain in Lebanon After Expired Withdrawal Deadline

Lebanon has denied permission for Iranian flights to land in Beirut twice this week following warnings from the United States that Israel might shoot down these planes, according to a Lebanese security source cited by AFP. The first incident occurred on February 15, when Lebanese authorities informed Iran that a flight scheduled to arrive in Beirut should not take off. Israel has repeatedly accused Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group, of utilizing Beirut’s airport to transport weapons and funds from Iran. Both Hezbollah and Lebanese officials have denied these allegations. The recent flight bans reflect escalating tensions in the region, particularly amid fears of heightened military action. The situation underscores the complex interplay of regional geopolitics, with Lebanon navigating its relationships with both Iran and Israel while managing domestic security concerns. Further developments are anticipated as regional players respond to the evolving security landscape.

Protests erupted in Beirut on February 14, 2025, as demonstrators blocked access to Lebanon's only commercial airport in response to the cancellation of a passenger flight from Iran. According to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency, protesters expressed anger towards government officials and airport authorities, accusing them of yielding to Israeli pressure to prohibit the flight. The Lebanese civil aviation agency announced that "additional security measures" have led to the temporary rescheduling of some flights, expected to last until February 18, coinciding with a ceasefire deadline between Israel and Hezbollah. Earlier statements from the Israeli military claimed that Iran and Hezbollah were using civilian flights at Beirut Airport to transport funds for terrorist activities aimed at Israel. Furthermore, Lebanon's parliamentary speaker, Nabih Berri, stated that the country has rejected Israel's demand for military presence in five locations in southern Lebanon post-deadline, while confirming that the U.S. has informed Lebanon of Israeli plans to withdraw from occupied villages by February 18.

Israeli troops have withdrawn from all but five strategic points in southern Lebanon as of February 18, 2025. This action comes after a year of conflict and follows a ceasefire agreement signed on November 27, 2024. Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that the military presence is necessary for the country's security. Residents have begun returning to the devastated village of Kfar Kila, which was heavily impacted by the hostilities. Alaa al-Zein, a local returning home, described the area as a "disaster zone," noting that many homes and businesses have been left in ruins. Due to army restrictions and debris, many had to abandon their vehicles and walk into the village. The conflicted region has been marked by violent clashes, including an intense two-month period of warfare before the ceasefire was established. The situation remains delicate as residents try to rebuild their lives amidst the destruction.