Mon Feb 17 13:29:46 UTC 2025: ## Israel Defies Ceasefire Deadline, Maintaining Troops in Southern Lebanon

**BEIRUT, Lebanon –** Tensions are rising between Lebanon and Israel as Israel has refused to fully withdraw its troops from southern Lebanon by the agreed-upon February 18th ceasefire deadline. Despite the agreement to end months of conflict, the Israeli military plans to maintain a presence at five strategic locations within Lebanese territory, sparking concerns in Beirut.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed anxieties on Monday regarding the incomplete withdrawal, stating his fear that Israel will not fully comply with the terms of the ceasefire. An Israeli official confirmed that troops will remain at these undisclosed locations. This defiance of the agreement follows reports of continued Israeli attacks within Lebanon, including drone strikes that killed a Hamas official in Sidon and damaged civilian property in other southern towns.

Human Rights Watch has criticized Israel for the destruction of civilian homes and infrastructure, hindering the return of residents. These actions, coupled with the incomplete withdrawal, cast doubt on the fragility of the ceasefire, brokered in late November following intense fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

While the ceasefire stipulated a complete Israeli withdrawal within 60 days, and an extension to February 18th, Israel claims Hezbollah has not fulfilled its obligations under the agreement. Lebanese parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally, revealed that Washington has been informed of Israel’s intention to maintain troops at these strategic locations – a plan Lebanon vehemently rejects.

Analysts suggest the retained positions provide Israel with significant military oversight of southern Lebanon, and there are indications of tacit US support for extending the withdrawal period. The situation remains precarious, with Lebanon closely monitoring the Israeli military’s actions and the potential for further escalation.

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