Lebanon Ceasefire Extended

January 27, 2025: The ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel, brokered by the U.S. and France, has been extended until February 18 after the initial deadline passed. This follows Israel’s decision to keep troops in southern Lebanon, citing the Lebanese government’s failure to remove Hezbollah’s armed presence from the area as required under the terms of the truce.

The ceasefire, announced in November, ended 14 months of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The agreement outlined a 60-day timeline for Hezbollah’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the corresponding pullout of Israeli forces. However, as the original deadline approached, Israel maintained its presence, citing unfulfilled conditions.

Lebanon reported that Israeli forces killed 22 people and injured 124 in southern Lebanon on Sunday as displaced residents attempted to return to their homes. The Israeli military claimed it fired warning shots and apprehended individuals it deemed an imminent threat.

The conflict has displaced over 1.2 million people in Lebanon, with around 4,000 killed since the escalation in September. The violence began after Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel following Hamas’s October 2023 assault, claiming solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Israel’s subsequent offensive aimed to secure its northern border and allow the return of displaced residents.

U.S. officials mediated the extension, emphasizing the need to avoid further civilian casualties. Talks will now focus on the repatriation of Lebanese prisoners captured since October 2023. Meanwhile, residents returning to southern Lebanon have been warned of potential safety risks.
Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati confirmed that efforts to implement the ceasefire continue, though tensions remain high. Hezbollah’s response to the extension is closely monitored, and international calls for de-escalation persist.

The ceasefire’s fragility highlights the complexity of resolving regional conflicts, where geopolitical rivalries and historical grievances intersect. The coming weeks will test whether the agreement can pave the way for lasting stability or if renewed violence looms.