Lebanese Forces Slow to Take Over
The ceasefire agreement, brokered by the United States and France, allowed 60 days for Israel to withdraw its troops. However, the Israeli government announced that this timeline could not be met. Officials pointed to the Lebanese army’s delayed deployment to the region as the main reason for the delay.
Under the agreement, Lebanese forces were expected to secure the area and prevent Hezbollah from returning to southern Lebanon. Israel clarified that its phased withdrawal is being conducted in consultation with the United States. The agreement includes provisions for extending the timeline if necessary. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has accused Israel of breaching the terms by failing to adhere to the original deadline.
Ceasefire Aims to Establish a Buffer Zone
The ceasefire agreement sought to end more than a year of violent conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. It required Israel to complete its withdrawal from Lebanon within 60 days. At the same time, Hezbollah fighters were instructed to move north of the Litani River.
A 30-kilometer buffer zone was planned near the Israeli border, to be secured by the Lebanese military and UN peacekeepers. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which includes contributions from Austria, is working alongside Lebanese forces to maintain stability in the area.
Request for Timeline Extension
Reports suggest Israel has formally asked the United States for a 30-day extension to the truce’s original timeline. Early indications suggested that U.S. officials were hesitant about the extension, but no formal statement has been made.
The delay has drawn attention to the difficulties of implementing the agreement, with both sides navigating the complex conditions of the truce. The prolonged withdrawal process has added tension to the already fragile peace in the region.