Wed Jan 01 06:02:34 UTC 2025: ## Israel May Extend South Lebanon Occupation, Defying Ceasefire Agreement

**BEIRUT** – Israel may prolong its military presence in southern Lebanon beyond the 60-day timeframe stipulated in the November 27th ceasefire agreement, according to reports in Israeli media. This announcement confirms concerns voiced by numerous observers and represents yet another violation of the US and France-backed agreement, which Israel has already breached hundreds of times.

The Israeli newspaper, Israel Hayom, citing unnamed sources, suggests that the continued presence of Hezbollah weaponry in the south and efforts to rebuild infrastructure are behind Israel’s potential decision. While Hezbollah has ceased rocket attacks and Israel has ended its extensive bombing campaign, Israeli forces remain in the south, demolishing homes and infrastructure, preventing residents from returning, and killing at least 33 Lebanese citizens in the past month.

The ceasefire agreement dictated the withdrawal of Israeli troops, to be replaced by UNIFIL peacekeepers followed by the Lebanese army. However, Israel’s stated rationale raises questions about the agreement’s enforceability. A Western embassy source, speaking to Al Jazeera, revealed that the only implementation guarantees were US assurances of Israeli compliance. While Hezbollah could theoretically resume rocket fire, they have shown a reluctance to do so despite repeated Israeli violations. A warning rocket fired by Hezbollah on December 2nd prompted a disproportionate Israeli response, resulting in nine Lebanese deaths.

The immediate aftermath of the ceasefire saw displaced Lebanese returning home, only to find many areas declared no-go zones by Israel. Israeli forces have even ventured eight kilometers beyond the UN-demarcated Blue Line on December 26th, prompting UNIFIL to issue a statement urging a halt to actions that threaten the fragile peace and calling for the timely withdrawal of Israeli forces and the deployment of Lebanese Armed Forces. UNIFIL also expressed concern over the ongoing destruction of residential areas and infrastructure.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s call for a ceasefire monitoring committee has yielded little effect. The potential for a prolonged Israeli occupation raises significant concerns about the future stability of the region and the effectiveness of internationally brokered peace agreements.

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