The Lebanese Army Command continues to face significant obstacles in its efforts to redeploy in southern Lebanon, encountering delays and resistance from both Israeli forces and American mediation. For three consecutive days, the army has requested coordination from US General Jasper Jeffers, head of the ceasefire supervision committee, to facilitate its return to positions in Naqoura and other areas it evacuated before Israel’s ground incursion in early October. Despite the army’s readiness, as demonstrated in previous redeployments in Khiyam and Shamaa, Jeffers has conveyed Israel’s insistence on completing its objectives before withdrawing, citing the army’s inability to “clean the ground” as a justification for delays.

This hesitation has thwarted the army’s plans to re-enter Naqoura, Dahra, Al-Jbeen, Tayr Harfa, and additional towns in the western sector. In a telegram, the army called for the withdrawal of occupation forces, emphasizing the need to remove troops from towns where operations have concluded. However, Israeli forces are reportedly establishing new rules of engagement, consolidating their freedom of movement as a de facto status quo. Signals from Jeffers suggest that Israel may extend its operation timeline from 60 days to 90, potentially delaying the army’s return until April, depending on Israel’s progress in neutralizing resistance capabilities.

The army’s frustrations, coupled with objections from Speaker Nabih Berri, led to the postponement of a planned coordination meeting involving Lebanese officers, Jeffers, and representatives from France and UNIFIL. The army has demanded concrete actions to demonstrate goodwill ahead of Monday’s meeting of the five-member committee in Ras al-Naqoura, which may include the participation of US envoy Amos Hochstein. A partial withdrawal from Naqoura by Monday morning is anticipated, potentially offering a face-saving opportunity for the Lebanese Army.
Amid these tensions, Jeffers made an unannounced visit to Khiyam, inspecting the army’s field deployment alongside the commander of the 7th Brigade, Tony Fares. This follows his earlier meetings with army officers in Marjeyoun. The army is pressing ahead with its deployment plans, with patrols expected to assess and reposition in areas such as Aitaroun, Yaroun, Bint Jbeil, and other strategic locations previously evacuated during Israel’s incursion.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces have intensified their ground operations, reaching previously inaccessible areas. Mechanized patrols briefly advanced from Kfar Kila to Burj al-Muluk, coming within 50 meters of a new Lebanese army checkpoint, while infantry units penetrated Deir Mimas, Bani Hayyan, and Houla, where they burned homes. Artillery strikes targeted the outskirts of Houla and Wadi al-Saluqi, highlighting the ongoing volatility on the ground.

Al Akhbar report