The Israeli military has released a map showing its continued presence in southern Lebanon. This comes despite a ceasefire agreement and calls for a full withdrawal. The deployment covers several kilometers beyond the border.
Israeli Forces Maintain Positions In Lebanon
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have outlined a new “forward defense line” inside southern Lebanon. The map reveals that Israeli troops remain stationed several kilometers past the border, covering dozens of mostly deserted villages. This deployment persists even after a US-brokered ten-day ceasefire with Hezbollah took effect.
The ceasefire, agreed last Thursday, followed the first direct talks between Israel and Lebanon in decades. The arrangement is intended to support wider diplomatic efforts involving the US and Iran, but Israeli forces are not withdrawing from all positions in Lebanon.
Buffer Zone And Military Operations Detailed
According to the map, the new deployment line stretches from east to west, approximately 5 to 10 kilometers inside Lebanese territory. Israel has stated its intention to establish a buffer zone in this area. In a statement, the IDF described the area as a “forward defense line” but did not specify its exact dimensions.
Israeli forces have reportedly destroyed villages within this zone, citing the need to prevent “direct threats” to communities in northern Israel. The military said five divisions and naval units are currently operating south of the line to dismantle Hezbollah infrastructure and prevent attacks.
Official Statements On Security Measures
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz addressed the ongoing operations along the border.
“Any structure threatening our soldiers and any road suspected of being planted with explosives must be immediately destroyed.”
He also stated that homes used by Hezbollah would be demolished and emphasized the military’s readiness to respond to threats.
“The IDF has been ordered to use full force in Lebanon, even during the ceasefire, if it is threatened.”
These remarks highlight Israel’s stance on maintaining security measures in the region, regardless of the ceasefire.
Hezbollah Response And Regional Impact
Hezbollah did not participate in the Washington negotiations but has indicated conditional support for the ceasefire. The group has called for a complete halt to attacks and an eventual Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory.
Earlier in March, Israel expanded its operations in southern Lebanon and launched airstrikes on Beirut and other cities after Hezbollah fired rockets in support of Iran. Tehran has since made the cessation of Israeli military actions in Lebanon a requirement for broader diplomatic agreements with the US and Israel.
Humanitarian Consequences Of The Conflict
Lebanese officials report that since early March, Israeli attacks have resulted in nearly 2,300 deaths and over 7,500 injuries in Lebanon. The violence has also displaced more than one million people from their homes. The ongoing military presence and destruction in southern Lebanon continue to raise concerns about the humanitarian situation in the affected areas.