Lebanon’s Efforts to Ensure Israeli Withdrawal
With just hours left until February 18, the scheduled date for the Israeli army’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon, Lebanese officials are making intense efforts to ensure that the withdrawal happens as planned. According to Al-Diyar newspaper, the Israeli army is expected to leave all occupied villages and towns but may try to keep control over five strategic locations. Tel Aviv had informed Lebanon of its intention to hold these positions, but Lebanese officials firmly rejected this, demanding a complete and unconditional withdrawal from all Lebanese territory.
Lebanese Leadership Pushes for International Pressure
To secure the full withdrawal, both Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam are actively working to pressure Israel through international channels. President Aoun is directly communicating with the U.S. government, while Prime Minister Salam is holding meetings with ambassadors from the International Quintet Committee to ensure they take responsibility in pushing for Israel’s full withdrawal.
Salam Rallies Arab Leaders for Timely Israeli Withdrawal: Strategic Dialogues with Key Arab Officials
In addition, Salam made several phone calls to key Arab leaders, including the Secretary-General of the Arab League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Jordanian Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, and Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf, who represents Arab nations in the UN Security Council. The goal of these talks was to gain stronger Arab support for Lebanon’s demand that Israel withdraws on time without any delays.
During his conversation with Qatar’s prime minister, the two discussed Lebanon’s latest developments and the ceasefire agreement. Qatar’s foreign ministry released a statement reaffirming the country’s support for Lebanon’s unity and territorial integrity. The Qatari prime minister also stressed the importance of respecting the ceasefire and ensuring a full Israeli withdrawal from all Lebanese land.
Mixed Messages from Israel: Media vs. Government
Meanwhile, Israeli media reports indicate that an Israeli withdrawal is expected soon. The Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom reported that the Israeli army is preparing to leave Lebanon completely within the next two days. However, the final decision depends on the Israeli political leadership. The newspaper quoted security sources saying, “We are waiting for political instructions on whether to withdraw from Lebanon or extend our stay if requested. So far, we have received no official orders to remain in any part of southern Lebanon.” The report also mentioned that Israeli forces along the Lebanon border will triple in size compared to their pre-war deployment.
Another Israeli newspaper, Yedioth Ahronoth, reported that security officials expect the Israeli army to withdraw in the coming days as the Lebanese army takes over security in the region. However, Israel still insists on maintaining military control over five strategic points along the border. The report also suggested that Tel Aviv is open to extending the ceasefire with Lebanon once again.
Security Concerns on the Ground
Despite these reports, uncertainty remains over whether the withdrawal will actually take place. According to Al-Joumhouria newspaper, Lebanese sources insist that the Israeli army must withdraw completely. However, as of yesterday, Lebanese officials had not received any clear confirmation from either the U.S. government or the UN peacekeeping force (UNIFIL) regarding Israel’s final decision.
At the same time, security tensions in Lebanon are increasing. There have been reports of attacks on UNIFIL forces, raising concerns about stability in the region. Additionally, security sources have warned of a potential threat to Beirut’s international airport. In response, authorities have taken precautionary measures, including temporarily closing the airport road as a safety measure.
What Comes Next?
Although Israeli media suggests that the withdrawal is near, the final decision remains uncertain. Without a clear confirmation from international parties, the situation could change at any moment. Lebanese leaders continue to push for international pressure to ensure that Israel withdraws as planned. In the coming hours, the Lebanese people, as well as the international community, will be watching closely to see if Israel follows through with its withdrawal or if delays and complications arise.
