Israel Declares Permanent Military Presence in Southern Lebanon Despite Ceasefire

Tel Aviv / Beirut — Israel has formally announced that it will maintain its military presence in southern Lebanon despite the existing ceasefire agreement, with the Israeli Defence Minister declaring that Israeli forces will not withdraw from the security zone established in the region.
In a bold and provocative statement, the Israeli Defence Minister made clear that the Israeli military would face no restrictions whatsoever on conducting operations inside Lebanese territory, asserting that forces retain full authority to carry out strikes whenever deemed necessary.
The announcement has been met with sharp condemnation from the Lebanese government and the broader Arab world, who have denounced Israel’s position as a flagrant violation of both international law and the terms of the ceasefire agreement.
The United Nations has also expressed deep concern over Israel’s declared intent, urging all parties to respect the agreed ceasefire terms and warning against any unilateral actions that could destabilize the already fragile situation in the region.
Diplomatic analysts warn that Israel’s continued military foothold in southern Lebanon — coupled with unrestricted operational freedom — risks reigniting hostilities and could plunge the region into a renewed cycle of conflict at a time when international efforts are focused on achieving lasting peace.