Israel maintains presence in key southern Lebanon areas as troops withdraw

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have nearly completed their withdrawal from southern Lebanon, with only five sites remaining under Israeli control.

The withdrawal carried out according to the established timeline, has been confirmed by Al-Manar TV, which reported that the Lebanese army has entered several areas, including Ma'is al-Jabal, Blida, and Mahbib, following Israel’s exit from these regions, per Caliber.Az.

However, the IDF still maintains a presence in five strategic locations in southern Lebanon. These include:

1. Labbouneh, in the western part of the border, opposite the Israeli settlement of Shlomi.
2. Ramia and Jabl Blat, in the central part of the border, opposite the Israeli settlement of Shtula.
3. Blida, Bint Jbeil, and Maroun al-Ras, in the central part of the border, opposite the Israeli settlement of Avivim.
4. Wadi Saluki, in the eastern part of the border, opposite the Israeli settlement of Margaliot.
5. Al-Hiyam, Kfar Kila, Wadi Ayoun, and Amra, in the eastern part of the border, opposite the Israeli settlement of Metula.

According to Israeli media reports, the IDF has no immediate plans to withdraw from these areas, and control is expected to remain under Israeli forces for the foreseeable future. Some estimates suggest that Israeli troops may stay in these positions for anywhere between two to eight months, though the duration could be longer.

The Jerusalem Post noted that Israel will keep approximately three times as many troops along the border defence line as it did before the war, with a possible force size of 10,000-15,000 personnel depending on various factors. These troops will remain stationed at the five outposts in southern Lebanon.

While the IDF command hopes the Lebanese Armed Forces will take a stronger stance against Hezbollah, reports suggest that the Lebanese military's actions against the radical group have not been as effective as Israel had hoped.

The truce between Lebanon and Israel, brokered by the US and France, was established on November 27, 2024. Under the terms of the agreement, Israel agreed to withdraw its forces within 60 days while the Lebanese army took control of the border area to prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its infrastructure there.

By Tamilla Hasanova