Hezbollah warns Israel to withdraw from Lebanon by 18 February

Hezbollah’s leader declared that Israeli forces must fully withdraw from Lebanese territory by 18 February, insisting Israel has “no pretext” to maintain a military presence in southern Lebanon.

Under a US-brokered truce in November, Israel was given 60 days to pull out of southern Lebanon, where its forces had launched a ground assault against Hezbollah fighters in October. The deadline was later extended, but Israeli officials have reportedly requested to keep troops stationed at five military posts.

In a recorded speech, Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem dismissed Israel’s demands, stating, “Israel must withdraw completely on 18 February, it has no pretext, no five points or other details... this is the agreement.” He warned that any Israeli military presence beyond that date would be considered an occupation.

“Everyone knows how an occupation is dealt with,” Qassem said, though he stopped short of explicitly threatening renewed attacks on Israel.