Beirut, January 27: The withdrawal of Israeli troops from South Lebanon has been extended to 18 February, according to a statement released by the White House on Sunday. The extension follows Israel’s request for additional time to ensure the deployment of Lebanese forces in the region to prevent the resurgence of Hezbollah fighters.
The original deadline, set as part of the ceasefire agreement signed on 27 November between Israel and Lebanon, expired on 25 January. Under the agreement, Israel was to withdraw its forces from South Lebanon within 60 days. However, Israel sought an extension to facilitate the deployment of Lebanese troops across the area.
Tensions flared on 26 January as protests erupted in South Lebanon, with demonstrators demanding the immediate withdrawal of Israeli troops as per the ceasefire terms. The protests escalated into violence, with Israeli forces reportedly opening fire on the crowd.
According to Lebanon’s Health Ministry, the shooting resulted in 22 fatalities, including six women and one Lebanese soldier, while 124 people were injured. Those injured included residents from 20 villages along the border area.
