IDF to Maintain Presence in Strategic Southern Lebanon Positions Beyond Withdrawal Deadline
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have announced that they will retain troops in five strategic locations in southern Lebanon beyond the February 18 withdrawal deadline stipulated in the recent ceasefire agreement. This decision aims to ensure the safety of Israeli citizens and oversee the transition of control to Lebanese forces.
In November 2024, a U.S.-brokered ceasefire concluded hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, mandating a 60-day period for Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the deployment of Lebanese armed forces in the vacated areas. This deadline was previously extended from January 26 to February 18. Despite the impending deadline, the IDF has determined that maintaining a presence in specific locations is necessary due to ongoing security concerns.
Strategic Positions
The five positions where IDF troops will remain are situated on elevated terrain outside Lebanese residential areas, providing critical vantage points over northern Israeli communities. These locations include:
- A hill near Labbouneh, opposite Shlomi
- Jabal Blat peak, across from Zar’it
- Elevated ground facing Avivim and Malkia
- A hill overlooking Margaliot
- Terrain adjacent to Metula
The IDF has established military posts at these sites to monitor and respond to potential threats effectively. Concurrently, the IDF will withdraw from all Lebanese border villages and towns by 10 a.m. on February 18.
The United States has expressed support for Israel’s decision to maintain troops in these positions temporarily. A U.S. administration official stated that this move aligns with the ceasefire’s monitoring mechanism, emphasizing the importance of ensuring Hezbollah’s withdrawal and the safety of Israeli civilians.
However, Lebanese officials have voiced concerns over the delayed full withdrawal. President Joseph Aoun highlighted fears that the complete Israeli pullout might not be achieved by the set deadline, urging diplomatic efforts to ensure adherence to the ceasefire terms.
Hezbollah has also expressed opposition to the extended Israeli presence, stating that any Israeli forces remaining in Lebanon after the deadline would be considered occupying forces.
In addition to retaining these strategic positions, the IDF has bolstered defenses on the Israeli side of the border. Measures include the construction of new posts opposite each Israeli border community, enhanced surveillance capabilities with advanced cameras, radars, and sensors, and a tripling of troop numbers compared to pre-war levels.
Amid these developments, the IDF conducted a drone strike in the Lebanese city of Sidon on February 17, targeting and eliminating Mohammad Shaheen, the head of Hamas’ military operations in Lebanon. The IDF accused Shaheen of planning attacks against Israeli citizens, further underscoring the volatile security situation in the region.