IDF Seeks Extended Stay in Southern Lebanon Amid Hezbollah Violations

January 23, 2025

12:31 PM

Reading time: 4 minutes


The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have requested an extension of their stay in southern Lebanon for an additional 30 days, beyond the January 27 deadline, in order to continue efforts to destroy Hezbollah weaponry concealed in border villages. This request comes as Hezbollah has committed several violations of the ceasefire agreement, though these have been described as minor by the IDF, with Hezbollah refraining from firing into Israel since late November.

Despite these violations, it remains uncertain whether the US and other Western powers will support the IDF's request. The situation could potentially escalate into a larger conflict, depending on how the ceasefire is handled and how Hezbollah responds to further military actions.

The ceasefire, which began in late November, has seen approximately 120 minor violations from Hezbollah, including attempted movements of rocket caches and some mortar fire. While these violations have been relatively small in scale, the IDF has remained active, killing around 50 Hezbollah terrorists since the ceasefire began, with most of the casualties occurring in the first month.

On the ground, Hezbollah has claimed it will reignite hostilities if Israel does not withdraw within 60 days, a deadline that is fast approaching. The IDF's request for additional time is partly based on its concern that Hezbollah’s weapons, which the Lebanese army has been slow to dismantle, continue to pose a threat. The military recently uncovered a new weapons stash near the border, reinforcing its argument for more time to neutralize Hezbollah's capabilities.

However, the longer Israel stays, the more complicated the situation becomes, particularly if unarmed civilians begin returning to their villages. The IDF has previously warned that anyone approaching its defense lines could be targeted, but that stance may become more difficult to justify after Day 60.

As international pressure mounts and the deadline approaches, it remains to be seen how Israel will navigate this complex and volatile situation. Should the Lebanese army fail to keep Hezbollah out of southern Lebanon, the IDF may consider resuming a larger conflict.

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