News Desk: Lebanon has called for the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from its southern region as part of the terms outlined in a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. Lebanese officials argued that Israel’s continued presence in five areas constitutes an “occupation” and have urged France and the United States to help pressure Israel to comply with the terms of the truce. Under the agreement, Israel was expected to pull out by January 26, but this deadline was extended to February 18 after Israel failed to meet it.

On the morning of February 18, Lebanon’s army reported that Israeli forces were still stationed in several border villages. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s civil defense recovered 23 bodies from towns near the border. Despite partial withdrawals starting on Tuesday, Israel announced it would retain a presence at five strategic locations, citing security concerns for northern Israeli communities.

The Lebanese government, led by President Aoun, Prime Minister Salam, and Speaker Berri, has condemned Israel’s failure to fully pull out, considering it a violation of the ceasefire agreement. Lebanon plans to present the issue to the United Nations Security Council, demanding full Israeli withdrawal.

The ceasefire, brokered by the US and France in November, was intended to end months of cross-border fighting between Hezbollah and Israel. However, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel’s forces would remain vigilant and continue to bolster security on the Israeli side of the border. Despite these ongoing tensions, both sides had agreed to pull back under the terms of the ceasefire, but Israel’s partial withdrawal has sparked further uncertainty and concerns over the fragile peace.