Israel maintains troops in southern Lebanon despite withdrawal deadline
cnn.com —
Israel is keeping troops at five posts in southern Lebanon, despite a February 18 withdrawal deadline and Hezbollah's warnings of a ceasefire violation. The Israeli military cites the need to defend residents and monitor threats. The withdrawal deadline was extended from January at Israel's request after a year-long conflict with Hezbollah. Lebanese leaders have rejected the extension, stating it undermines the ceasefire agreement. The U.S. military has not confirmed Israel's commitment to withdraw. Meanwhile, France proposed replacing Israeli forces with UN peacekeepers to ensure compliance with the deadline.