Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem said that Israel must fully withdraw from Lebanon by February 18 (Tuesday) Israel had previously postponed its full withdrawal from Lebanon to February 18 after missing the initial deadline. The Israeli military also intended to retain control over five strategic positions in southern Lebanon beyond the deadline, a move also rejected by Hezbollah. Meanwhile, the Israeli forces carried out on Sunday night airstrikes on areas in south Lebanon and the Bekaa region. The agreement requires Israel to withdraw from Lebanese territory within 60 days while the Lebanese army assumes control along the border and in the south. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli forces have continued to conduct strikes in Lebanon, citing security threats. The Lebanese government announced an extension of the ceasefire agreement until February 18, following the expiration of the initial 60-day period without a complete Israeli withdrawal. A ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and the Israeli military has been in effect since November 27, 2024, halting over a year of clashes triggered by the Gaza war. For confidential support call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for details.
