Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the military will leave all five positions in southern Lebanon if Hezbollah disarms completely. He added that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) would gradually pull back and reduce airstrikes once the conditions are met.
Forces and Weapons Remain a Key Dispute
The withdrawal of Israeli troops has caused tension in disarmament talks. After the November 2024 Israel-Hezbollah war ended with a US-brokered ceasefire, Hezbollah refused to lay down arms unless Israel leaves five hills it controls inside Lebanon. The group also wants daily airstrikes to stop. Israeli attacks have already killed hundreds of Hezbollah fighters.
Lebanese authorities have not responded to Netanyahu’s statement. Meanwhile, the US has pressed Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah. The group suffered heavy losses during the 14-month conflict, including deaths of many leaders.
US envoy Tom Barrack visited Israel recently to strengthen the ceasefire. He said, “The Lebanese government has done their part. Now what we need is for Israel to comply with that equal handshake.”
Lebanon Seeks Peace and International Aid
Lebanon faces urgent rebuilding needs. The war left southern and eastern regions in ruins and caused about $11.1 billion in damage, according to the World Bank. Most international aid depends on Hezbollah disarming.
However, the Lebanese government must act carefully. Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Kassem warned against forced disarmament. He argued that removing the Iran-backed group’s weapons serves Israeli interests.
Israel’s Security Concerns
Israel says Hezbollah is trying to rebuild its military strength. The five Israeli-controlled positions provide strategic vantage points. They also face communities in northern Israel, where 60,000 people were displaced during the war.
Since the ceasefire, Hezbollah pulled most fighters and weapons from areas south of the Litani River. The agreement is unclear about weapons north of the river. Israel and the US want disarmament across Lebanon. Hezbollah claims the ceasefire only covers areas south of the Litani.
Conflict History
The low-level conflict began after Hamas attacked Israel from Gaza on October 7, 2023. Hezbollah launched rockets in support of Hamas. Fighting escalated into a full war in September 2024. Over 4,000 people died.