Beirut: The Israeli army has declared its intention to remain in southern Lebanon until the Lebanese army demonstrates its ability to control the area. The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts by the Israeli military to dismantle terrorist strongholds in the region.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Israeli army is establishing military sites between Israeli towns and the border fence. The army plans to conduct operations over the next three weeks, during the extended ceasefire period until February 18, to dismantle Hezbollah areas and collect hidden weapons, especially in the eastern sector bordering the Upper Galilee.

A military official stationed in southern Lebanon revealed that the Israeli air force has continued to target Hezbollah weapons despite the ceasefire, a move that violates the agreement. The official emphasized that control will not be transferred to the Lebanese army until it shows adequate control on the ground.

In areas not adjacent to the border fence in the western and central parts of southern Lebanon, control has been returned to the Lebanese army. However, in villages adjacent to the border and along its entire length, Israeli forces remain present. The official expressed skepticism about the Lebanese army's ability to ensure the security of residents returning to northern areas, stressing that the responsibility lies with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

The military official highlighted that the IDF has reorganized the area, establishing it as a security zone to ensure the safety of returning residents. Military sites have been completed to form this security zone, meeting the demands of residents expected to return to the north.