Measure was taken after Israel failed to meet initial deadline for troop withdrawal
The White House announced this Sunday (26 January 2025) the extension of the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon for another 3 weeks. The measure was taken after Israel failed to meet the initial deadline for the withdrawal of its forces from southern Lebanon, a region marked by intense clashes, which would end today.
In addition to the extension, the United States has committed to mediating negotiations between Lebanon and Israel for the release of Lebanese prisoners captured following a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The effort is part of a broader initiative to find a lasting solution to the conflict in the region.
On the day of the announcement, at least 22 people were killed and dozens injured in incursions by Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Ministry of Health said. Residents tried to return to their homes, disobeying Israeli military orders, which resulted in clashes.
Benjamin Netanyahu’s government had informed, on Friday (24 January 2025), that the withdrawal of Israeli forces would not be completed by the established deadline, attributing responsibility to Lebanon for not fulfilling its part of the agreement. In response, the Lebanese Army accused Israel of procrastination, raising tensions between the 2 countries.
