Mon Jan 27 01:40:46 UTC 2025: ## Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire Extension Met With Violence; 22 Killed in Protests

**BEIRUT/JERUSALEM** – A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon has been further complicated by violence and a contentious extension. The White House announced Sunday that Israel and Lebanon had agreed to extend the deadline for Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon until February 18th, following an Israeli request for more time. This extension, however, comes amidst escalating tensions.

Israeli forces opened fire on protestors demanding their withdrawal, resulting in at least 22 deaths and 124 injuries, according to Lebanese health officials. The victims include civilians and a Lebanese army soldier. Demonstrations, some involving Hezbollah flags, erupted as the initial 60-day deadline stipulated in the November ceasefire agreement expired.

Israel claims it needs more time to ensure Hezbollah doesn’t re-establish a presence in the area, citing the incomplete deployment of the Lebanese army. Lebanon counters that its army cannot fully deploy until Israeli forces withdraw. The Israeli army blamed Hezbollah for instigating the protests, claiming its forces fired warning shots in response to approaching suspects.

Meanwhile, Israel prevented thousands of Palestinians from returning to their homes in northern Gaza, citing a breach of the ceasefire by Hamas. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun insisted on Lebanon’s sovereignty, urging restraint and trust in the Lebanese Armed Forces. Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri called for international action to compel Israeli withdrawal.

The UN called on both sides to uphold their ceasefire obligations, noting the failure to meet previously agreed-upon timelines and warning that the violence threatens the fragile security situation. A UNIFIL spokesperson stated that conditions are not yet in place for the safe return of citizens to their villages. The situation remains extremely tense, with uncertainty surrounding the future of the ceasefire and the potential for further escalation.

Read More