Israel and Lebanon Extend Ceasefire Deadline Amid Tensions

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend the deadline for Israeli troops' withdrawal from southern Lebanon until February 18, 2025. This comes after the 60-day period outlined in a ceasefire agreement, which ended on Sunday following the Israel-Hezbollah war in late November. Israel requested additional time, citing concerns over Hezbollah's potential resurgence in the region.

Israel's government has emphasized that its forces must stay longer because the Lebanese army has not fully deployed to all areas of southern Lebanon, as stipulated in the ceasefire agreement. However, the Lebanese army has maintained that it cannot deploy until Israeli forces complete their withdrawal.

The United States has been closely monitoring the situation, with the White House confirming that the arrangement between Israel and Lebanon will remain in effect until February 18. The U.S. also stated that both governments would begin negotiations concerning the return of Lebanese prisoners captured during the ongoing conflict.

Defense Minister Israel Katz reaffirmed Israel's commitment to enforcing the ceasefire, stating, "Anyone who violates the rules or threatens the IDF will pay the full price."

However, despite the extension, tensions remain high. Hezbollah has rejected the delay, calling for continued confrontations with Israeli forces. This resulted in deadly clashes on Sunday, where 22 Lebanese civilians were killed during violent protests at the border.

The ceasefire deal, which was brokered after a two-month full-scale war with Hezbollah, aims to ensure the stability of the region. However, Hezbollah has accused Israel of violating the agreement by not withdrawing within the set timeframe. While Israel has continued to uncover Hezbollah weapons in the south, Lebanese officials have called on the Israeli government to honor its commitment.