Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared that Israeli forces will indefinitely remain in a “buffer zone” in southern Lebanon following a ceasefire agreement. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that this military presence is essential for Israel’s security. Lebanese officials condemned it as an occupation, complicating the implementation of the ceasefire and related agreements.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israeli forces will remain indefinitely in a designated “buffer zone” in southern Lebanon. This decision follows a ceasefire agreement which ended extensive hostilities, including a significant military operation involving ground troops. Katz emphasized that the situation is dependent on conditions, not a predetermined timeline, and reiterated that Israel had received approval from the United States.
Despite an agreed upon withdrawal by February 18, outlined in a truce brokered by the United States and France, Katz confirmed that Israeli forces will maintain five control positions in southern Lebanon for strategic security reasons. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar supported this declaration, labeling these locations as necessary for the country’s security until Lebanon fulfills its obligations under the agreement.
Lebanese authorities, however, strongly oppose this Israeli military presence, categorizing it as an act of occupation. The ceasefire stipulates that the Lebanese military would deploy alongside United Nations peacekeepers following the withdrawal of Israeli forces, with Hezbollah required to retreat north of the Litani River and dismantle its military infrastructure there.
A joint statement from UN officials expressed disappointment regarding the ongoing delays in the withdrawal process, which they deemed a violation of a 2006 Security Council resolution that previously ended conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The ceasefire has generally maintained stability despite ongoing tensions and incidents, including Israeli violations that have resulted in casualties.
In summary, Israeli forces are set to indefinitely stay in a buffer zone in southern Lebanon, as confirmed by Defense Minister Israel Katz. This decision, justified on security grounds, faces opposition from Lebanese leaders who deem it an occupation. The ceasefire agreement’s effectiveness now depends on Lebanon’s compliance with its terms, while international observers emphasize the need for adherence to established resolutions.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
