Tue Jan 07 02:19:26 IST 2025: ## US Envoy Assures Full Israeli Withdrawal from Lebanon Despite Looming Deadline
**Beirut, Lebanon** – Amidst concerns over Israel’s adherence to a November ceasefire agreement, US envoy Amos Hochstein has assured a complete Israeli military withdrawal from Lebanon. Hochstein’s statement on Monday follows the commencement of an Israeli troop pullback from Naqoura, in the western sector of the border, with the Lebanese army deploying in the area. While Hochstein confirmed the ongoing withdrawal, he did not specify a timeline, despite a 60-day deadline (January 26th) stipulated in the ceasefire agreement.
This assurance comes despite reports from Israeli media suggesting a planned permanent presence in Lebanon and recent near-daily Israeli attacks within the country, including airstrikes and ground incursions, which violate the ceasefire. Israel claims these actions are in response to Hezbollah’s failure to fully withdraw to the north of the Litani River, as per the agreement. Hezbollah, however, has largely refrained from retaliatory action, citing a desire to allow diplomatic channels to address the violations. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has warned, however, that their patience is not unlimited.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati strongly rejected any delay in the Israeli withdrawal. The UN has also reiterated its call for a timely Israeli departure. The Lebanese army confirmed its deployment in Naqoura, but urged residents to await official clearance before returning due to unexploded ordnance. Hochstein described the process as “not smooth, but successful,” suggesting a fragile but ongoing adherence to the ceasefire agreement. The situation remains tense, with potential for escalation if the Israeli withdrawal is not completed by the deadline.
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