The Lebanese army announced on Saturday that it has completed the deployment of its units in nine southern towns following the Israeli army's phased withdrawal under the terms of a cease-fire agreement effective since Nov. 27. The deployment covers towns in the Tyre district, including Ras al-Naqoura, Alma al-Shaab, al-Dhahira, Tayr Harfa, and Majdel Zoun, as well as Aitaroun, Bint Jbeil, al-Salehni, and al-Qaouzah in the Bint Jbeil district, according to an official statement. "The Lebanese army is working to strengthen its deployment and secure key points in coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and the five-member committee overseeing the cease-fire," the statement added. The five-member committee includes representatives from the US, France, Lebanon, Israel, and UNIFIL. Despite the cease-fire, Lebanese authorities have recorded over 455 violations by Israeli forces, resulting in the deaths of 37 individuals since the agreement came into effect. The cease-fire aims to end over 14 months of conflict between the Israeli army and Hezbollah that escalated in October 2023 during the Gaza war. As part of the agreement, Israel is required to withdraw its forces south of the Blue Line, while the Lebanese army is tasked with taking over within 60 days. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that the conflict, which began on Oct. 8, 2023, has claimed 4,068 lives and left 16,668 injured, including women, children, and healthcare workers. — Agencies
