UN urges Israel to honour ceasefire as Lebanon withdrawal drags on

The United Nations has called on Israel and Lebanon to uphold their commitments to the cessation of hostilities agreed in November, as Israeli forces continue to stall their withdrawal from southern Lebanon.

UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq warned that delays risk escalating tensions and prolonging the suffering of civilians desperate to return to their homes.

“We continue to call for the full implementation of Resolution 1701 as a comprehensive path towards longer-term peace, security and stability on both sides of the Blue Line,” he said.

The plea comes as the Israeli military extended its occupation of the Lebanese towns of Aitaroun and Qantara, where local reports say forces have demolished homes and a mosque.

The latest incursion adds to the long list of Israeli violations - now at 633 - since the ceasefire took effect. The withdrawal was supposed to be completed within 60 days, a deadline that expires on Sunday.