Israeli Forces To Remain in Southern Security Zone
Israel announced on Thursday that it will continue military operations in southern Lebanon and maintain its presence in a self-declared security zone despite a newly announced ceasefire arrangement between Lebanon and Israel.
The understanding emerged following talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials in Washington as part of a US-led diplomatic initiative. The agreement reportedly requires Hezbollah to halt all attacks and withdraw its operatives from areas between the Israeli border and the Litani River.
However, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israeli troops would remain deployed in the security zone, including strategic positions such as the Beaufort Castle area captured during recent operations. He also stressed that Israeli forces would continue targeting what Israel describes as militant infrastructure while retaining operational freedom in the region.
Meanwhile, Israeli military activity continued on Thursday. Security sources reported several strikes in southern Lebanon, while Lebanese media said a drone strike on a motorcycle killed one person and wounded another. Residents also reported drone activity over Beirut.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue Amid Political Disagreements
The latest ceasefire initiative forms part of broader diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. Nevertheless, Hezbollah has not publicly commented on the agreement and was not directly involved in the negotiations.
In addition, the joint statement issued after the talks outlined plans to establish pilot zones where the Lebanese Armed Forces would exercise exclusive control, excluding all non-state armed groups. Lebanese authorities have not yet formally commented on the announcement.
The ceasefire proposal has also sparked debate inside Israel. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir criticized the arrangement, describing it as a serious mistake and questioning whether Hezbollah would comply with its commitments.
At the same time, Lebanon’s leadership continues efforts to strengthen state control and reduce tensions through diplomatic channels. International concern remains high as ongoing hostilities have displaced large numbers of civilians and complicated wider regional negotiations.
Separately, the United Nations confirmed that one peacekeeper died and two others were wounded after mortar shells struck a UN position in southeastern Lebanon. An investigation into the incident is underway.
