Following the announcement of a ceasefire deal, Israeli forces are set to withdraw from Lebanon within a 60-day period, as outlined in the agreement terms. A senior US administration official confirmed that while the immediate withdrawal will not take place, the process will commence with the deployment of Lebanese military and security forces towards the southern region.
The official emphasized the gradual nature of the withdrawal, highlighting the need to prevent any potential security vacuums during the transition. As the Lebanese military advances southward, Israeli forces will progressively pull back from the area.
Regarding the issue of responding to ceasefire violations, the official underscored that both Israel and Lebanon maintain the right to self-defense in accordance with international law. This stance leaves room for each party to act in defense of their respective interests.
On the matter of Hezbollah forces in southern Lebanon, an agreed-upon map delineating the withdrawal line was mentioned, extending beyond the Litani River in certain areas. The Lebanese government will authorize and direct its military to take up positions in the south, overseeing the relocation of Hezbollah forces to the north and the removal of heavy weaponry.
The Lebanese military will also be tasked with patrolling the region to ensure the complete elimination of any remaining infrastructure or weaponry, preventing the reestablishment of such facilities in the area. This comprehensive approach aims to secure the southern region and uphold the terms of the ceasefire agreement.
