US Sets Deadline for IDF Withdrawal from Southern Lebanon

The United States has informed Israel that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) must complete their withdrawal from southern Lebanon by February 18, with no further extensions granted to the ceasefire agreement, according to US National Security Council Spokesperson Brian Hughes. This firm deadline follows a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, which had initially been set to expire on January 27 but was extended to February 18 due to ongoing security concerns and the incomplete deployment of the Lebanese Army.

Despite the strict deadline, Israeli officials have indicated that they are in continued talks with the US to improve the situation on the ground, suggesting that both sides are keen to find a resolution that ensures stability in the region while respecting the agreed-upon timeline. Hughes further clarified that the US is committed to the current withdrawal schedule and that no extension would be allowed beyond February 18.

The ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah, which marked the end of a year-long conflict, was initially intended to last for 60 days. However, due to delays in the Lebanese Army's full deployment in southern Lebanon, the ceasefire had been extended by the US and Lebanese governments. The presence of the IDF in the region was deemed necessary until the Lebanese Army could ensure security and control in the area.

Recently, Israeli Air Force jets struck a Hezbollah tunnel that crossed into Syria, used for smuggling weapons, as well as other Hezbollah munitions sites in Lebanon. These strikes were carried out by the IDF in response to Hezbollah’s violations of the ceasefire deal.

During a recent visit to Israel, US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East Morgan Ortagus met with senior officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, to discuss the ongoing ceasefire situation. Ortagus’s visit also coincided with heightened tensions along Israel’s northern border, particularly after Hezbollah’s violation of the ceasefire agreement.

The US administration has stated that it expects the Lebanese Army to be fully deployed by the deadline of February 18, which would allow the IDF to complete its planned withdrawal. The deployment of the Lebanese Army is seen as a crucial factor in securing southern Lebanon and ensuring the long-term stability of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.

As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the situation along the northern border, with both sides working to avoid further escalation. The US’s firm stance on the IDF withdrawal emphasizes the need for regional security and cooperation between Israel, Lebanon, and international mediators to ensure lasting peace.