IDF withdraws from Lebanon, will remain in five outposts

The IDF is completing its withdrawal today (Tuesday) from the remainder of southern Lebanon, in accordance with the ceasefire, with the exception of five outposts held along the Lebanese side of the border.

Defense Minister Israel Katz released this statement in the matter:

"According to the decision of the political echelon, starting today the IDF will remain in a buffer zone in Lebanon at five controlling outposts along the border line, in order to ensure the protection of all Israeli communities and deterrence against threats from Lebanon. In addition, many outposts have been established along the border line on the Israeli side and IDF forces have been reinforced.

"At the same time, the IDF will continue intensive and uncompromising enforcement activity against any violation by Hezbollah. Hezbollah must withdraw completely beyond the Litani River, and the Lebanese army must enforce and disarm it under the supervision of the mechanism established under US leadership.

"We are determined to provide full security to all northern communities in accordance with the principle established after October 7 - that only the IDF will ensure the security of communities in all sectors against any possible threat."

Israel received the backing of the United States to remain in the five strategic outposts after it tried and failed to get another extension of the withdrawal deadline from February 18 to February 28. This request came after Israel had secured an extension from the original deadline from January 26 to February 18.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has said repeatedly that Israel must withdraw entirely from Lebanese soil, without exception. However, he also said that Lebanon should not try to do so through war but rather through diplomatic means.

Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Qassem also stated that Israel must fully withdraw in accordance with the ceasefire agreement, otherwise it becomes an occupier, with all that entails.