Tensions Escalate as Israel Delays Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon

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Israel has failed to meet a Sunday deadline for withdrawing its forces from Southern Lebanon, as stipulated in a ceasefire agreement concluded on November 27, 2024, which ended hostilities with the Hezbollah militia. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) were supposed to complete their withdrawal by 4 AM that morning, but violence erupted as locals attempted to return home, resulting in the deaths of at least fifteen individuals and injuries to many others, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The IDF reported that they opened fire on individuals approaching their positions, reportedly including Hezbollah members.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the withdrawal delay on Friday, citing that Lebanon had not fully adhered to its obligations under the ceasefire agreement. Despite this, Netanyahu stated that the withdrawal would proceed gradually, receiving support from the United States, which called for a "short temporary extension" of the withdrawal deadline.

Lebanon's newly elected President Joseph Aoun has urged French President Emmanuel Macron to exert pressure on Israel to comply with the agreement. Meanwhile, a Hezbollah official warned of severe consequences if Israel does not withdraw, leading to growing uncertainty in Lebanon regarding a potential resurgence of conflict.

The ceasefire agreement mandates not only Israel's withdrawal but also Hezbollah's departure from Southern Lebanon, where the Lebanese Army is expected to assume control. Despite some IDF pullbacks along the coast, they remain active in eastern areas, conducting patrols and dismantling supposed Hezbollah infrastructures.

The Lebanese military, which is already strained and under-resourced following the collapse of Syria's Assad regime, has struggled to maintain control. Israel has criticized the sluggish progress of the Lebanese forces, while residents of southern Lebanon are increasingly frustrated with the lack of infrastructure rebuilding and effective governance.

Although Hezbollah suffered significant losses in the recent conflict, including the erosion of its supply lines, its future actions remain uncertain. Both the Israeli government and many Lebanese citizens are wary of renewed conflict, prioritizing peace and stability over further combat.

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