Lebanese Government Confirms Extension of Ceasefire Agreement with Israel Until February 18
Lebanese army in the areas destroyed by the war Photo: EFE
January 27, 2025 Hour: 1:48 pm
The Lebanese Government announced on Monday the extension of its ceasefire agreement with Israel until February 18, 2025, reaffirming its commitment to preserving the nation’s sovereignty and security.
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Israel Maintains Military Presence in Southern Lebanon Following Ceasefire Agreement
Prime Minister Najib Mikati shared the update via his account on the platform X, stating, “After reviewing the report of the committee overseeing the agreement’s implementation, which is based on UN Security Council Resolution 1701, the Lebanese Government confirms the continuation of the ceasefire agreement until February 18, 2025.”
On Sunday, the White House also issued a statement confirming the extension and announcing forthcoming negotiations involving Lebanon, Israel, and the United States to address the return of Lebanese prisoners captured after October 7, 2023.
The original ceasefire agreement stipulated that Israeli forces would withdraw from southern Lebanon within 60 days following the disarmament and redeployment of Hezbollah fighters. The Lebanese Army was to take full control of the region, with the withdrawal deadline set for January 26, 2025.
However, on January 24, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced their intention to maintain a military presence in southern Lebanon beyond the agreed timeline, alleging non-compliance by Lebanon but failing to provide evidence.
In violation of the agreement, Israeli forces reportedly opened fire on Lebanese civilians returning to their homes in southern towns, killing at least 22 people and injuring 124 others.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) strongly condemned these actions, stating, “The Israeli military must refrain from targeting civilians within Lebanese territory. Further violence risks destabilizing the fragile security situation and jeopardizing the progress achieved through the ceasefire agreement and Lebanon’s efforts to form a government.”
The extension of the ceasefire agreement represents a significant step toward stability. However, the situation remains precarious, with violations threatening to unravel diplomatic efforts. Both parties face international pressure to adhere to the terms of the agreement, amid efforts to ensure peace and address humanitarian concerns in the affected regions.
Autor: OSG
Fuente: Aljazeera-DW
