TASS: Israeli forces still holding positions in southern Lebanon

Israeli troops have still not withdrawn from positions they are occupying in the vicinity of the city of Nabatieh, the administrative centre of the eponymous province in southern Lebanon.

“Reports about the beginning of the withdrawal of Israeli military personnel and armoured vehicles from the towns of Kfar Tebnit, Nabatieh al-Fawqa and Ali Taher are not true,” the source said, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

He explained that once Israeli forces withdraw, these areas are expected to come under the control of the Lebanese army, which will be responsible for maintaining security there.

“This will allow Lebanese families who moved north due to the war to return to their homes, but for now the military does not recommend that displaced persons return to Nabatieh and risk their lives,” he added.

Units of the Lebanese army began clearing a road between the towns of Haddatha and Bint Jbeil in southern Lebanon, which had been occupied by Israeli forces following a ground operation against Hezbollah.

On June 4, Lebanese troops entered the town of Dibbin under agreements reached during Lebanese–Israeli talks in Washington on June 2–3. The agreements provide for the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from areas south of the Litani River. In return, Lebanese forces are committed to preventing Hezbollah fighters from returning to these areas.

By Vafa Guliyeva