At least 22 people, including Lebanese soldiers, were killed and 100 others injured in gunfire launched by Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) as crowds of Lebanese people began to return to their home towns and villages in southern Lebanon in the early hours of Sunday, January 26. Several other people were also reportedly detained by the IOF.
Earlier on Sunday, Israel threatened residents of southern Lebanon to not return to their homes after the IOF announced that it would extend its military presence in the territories even after the ceasefire deadline ended. However, in defiance of Israel, thousands returned to the South, facing Israeli tanks and soldiers.
Lebanese-American journalist Rania Khalek wrote on X, “Let’s be clear. Israel’s refusal to withdraw from Lebanon after the 60 day deadline is an occupation. The Israelis are murdering Lebanese civilians and soldiers today to maintain their occupation. The Lebanese have every right to defend themselves on their land against an invading and occupying force.”
Israel delays withdrawal
On Friday, January 24, the office of Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, announced in a statement that Israel will not withdraw all its forces from Lebanon by the deadline of the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah that took effect in the early hours of November 27.
The statement added that as per the agreement “the withdrawal process could possibly continue beyond the 60 days.” The office further claimed that the ceasefire agreement has not been “fully enforced” by the Lebanese state, therefore, “the gradual withdrawal process will continue, in full coordination with the United States.”
The statement was issued by Netanyahu’s office, two days after the Israeli PM had requested US President Donald Trump extend the presence of the IOF in five strategic Israeli military positions in southern Lebanon even after the determined deadline.
The request seems to have received the approval of the US administration, resulting in extending an already tenuous ceasefire deal that has been subjected to at least 629 violations by Israel. On Monday, January 27, the US confirmed that Israel and Lebanon agreed to an extension of the deadline for Israeli troops to withdraw from southern Lebanon until February 18.
The US support of Israel’s bid to continue its occupation of Lebanon is testament to the fact that the United States will continue to provide Israel with unlimited support no matter who is in charge. Just one week in office, Trump has confirmed that US Democrats and Republicans are two sides of the same coin.
