Tensions Mount in Lebanon as Deadline Nears for Israeli Withdrawal

A U.S. official overseeing the cease-fire between Israel and Hezbollah indicated that Israel plans to withdraw from occupied towns in southern Lebanon by next week, but uncertainty remains over the presence of Israeli troops at strategic points within Lebanese territory. Lebanon’s government rejects Israel’s intention to remain in five areas inside Lebanese territory after the Feb. 18 deadline for complete withdrawal. The Lebanese military is contending with protests and attacks near the airport in Beirut, underscoring the fragility of the truce overseen by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.

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