Lebanese army expands deployment in south, says prime minister

BEIRUT

The Lebanon army has begun expanding its presence in southern Lebanon to assert the authority of the state and to ensure that no weapon exists without the legal framework, the country’s prime minister said on Saturday.

In a meeting with Arab ambassadors accredited in Italy, Najib Mikati said: "The primary challenge lies in holding Israel accountable for its violations of the cease-fire agreement and demanding the withdrawal of its forces from Lebanese territory," according to a statement from the Prime Minister's office.

"We are waiting for the implementation of these measures with American-French guarantees, but we do not see an Israeli commitment,” he added.

Lebanese authorities have reported around 220 Israeli violations of the cease-fire since the deal came into force on Nov. 27.

Under the cease-fire terms, Israel is required to withdraw its forces south of the Blue Line – a de facto border – in phases, while the Lebanese army is to deploy in southern Lebanon within 60 days.

The US and France are responsible for overseeing the agreement's implementation, but details on enforcement mechanisms are unclear.

Over 4,000 people have been killed and more than 16,500 others injured in Israeli attacks in Lebanon, and over 1 million others have been displaced since October 2023, according to Lebanese health authorities.

*Writing by Ikram Kouachi