IDF Faces Major Challenges Ahead of Ceasefire Withdrawal Deadline

Hezbollah violations and unresolved security issues prompt the IDF to seek a 30-day extension as northern officials call for a year-long buffer zone.

Maj. Gen. Uri Gordin cites Hezbollah violations and security gaps, urging a 30-day extension before the IDF withdrawal to ensure stability.

The IDF-Lebanese ceasefire faces significant challenges ahead of Sunday’s withdrawal deadline, with Northern Command chief Maj. Gen. Uri Gordin revealing hundreds of Hezbollah violations and concerning cooperation between Hezbollah and elements within the Lebanese Armed Forces.

Military officials informed the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that the planned withdrawal cannot proceed as scheduled, citing:

⁠ ⁠Extensive remaining terror infrastructure that needs to be cleared
⁠ ⁠Inadequate implementation of security arrangements by Lebanese forces
⁠ ⁠Active Hezbollah violations in prohibited areas
⁠ ⁠Compromised intelligence sharing through Lebanese Army channels

The IDF has requested a 30-day extension to complete essential security operations. This development comes as Lebanese officials signal their citizens may attempt forced returns to their homes regardless of IDF presence, potentially creating more friction.

Local northern Israeli authorities have expressed strong opposition to any IDF withdrawal without establishing a clear security buffer zone for at least one year, saying they don’t have trust in alternative security arrangements.