Israel sets condition for withdrawal from southern Lebanon.

Arab Sea Newspaper - Special

Arab Sea - Follow-ups: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday Israel's readiness to withdraw from Lebanon, provided that the government takes steps to disarm Hezbollah. A statement issued by Netanyahu's office stated that "Israel appreciates the important step taken by the Lebanese government, led by President Aoun and Prime Minister Salam. The recent decision by the Lebanese cabinet to work towards disarming Hezbollah by the end of 2025 was an important decision." Earlier this month, the Lebanese cabinet announced a decision to disarm Hezbollah and other armed factions. Netanyahu's office said that if the Lebanese army proceeds with implementing the plan, Israel will consider taking reciprocal steps, including reducing its military presence, in coordination with a US-led security mechanism. US envoy Thomas Brack presented a disarmament paper that includes the most detailed proposals to date to curb Hezbollah's military power. The group has rejected repeated calls to disarm, especially after its war with Israel in late 2024, which left widespread destruction in Lebanon. A US-brokered ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel in November ended that round of conflict. The ceasefire included a call for Lebanon to confiscate all "unauthorized" weapons throughout the country, and also included Israel halting its attacks against Lebanese targets. Despite this, Israel has kept forces in 5 locations in Lebanon and has continued to launch air strikes against what it says are Hezbollah fighters or military facilities belonging to the group.