Israel is set to withdraw its military forces from southern Lebanon on Tuesday, in accordance with a previously agreed ceasefire agreement. However, according to a report by the Times of Israel, Israeli troops may remain in five bases in the area, permitted by the US, on the hills near the towns of Labbouneh, Sar’it, Avivim and Malkia, Margaliot and Metula. The exact duration of the Israeli presence in the bases is not currently specified and none of the bases are located within populated areas in Lebanon.
Additionally, the Times of Israel reported that the Israeli Defense Forces have strengthened their presence on the Israeli side of the border, establishing new military outposts, improving surveillance capabilities and increasing the number of troops in the area by threefold.
In the past few days, the Israeli military has conducted intense operations in southern Lebanon, aimed at eliminating the last remaining threats from Hezbollah, including targeting the group’s weapon depots and tunnel infrastructure. The area near the Israeli border has been largely cleared of Hezbollah’s infrastructure and weapons, according to reports.
The ceasefire agreement, which came into effect on November 27, 2024, initially required Israel to withdraw its troops from the region within 60 days. However, Israel extended the deadline to February 18, 2025, citing alleged violations of the agreement by the Lebanese side.