Israel's military has announced that its forces will stay in five strategic locations in southern Lebanon, despite the deadline for their withdrawal under the Hezbollah ceasefire, reports AP.

This has frustrated the Lebanese government, which is calling for the withdrawal to occur. Similarly, a separate ceasefire in Gaza is at risk as Israel's war with Hamas marks its 500th day.

Israel threatens 'all hell will break loose' on Hamas in latest Gaza ceasefire crisis

Tensions have also emerged over whether Israel and the United States want to continue the truce. Negotiations for the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire have yet to commence.

Israel's military spokesperson, Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, explained that the five locations in Lebanon provide key vantage points and are situated near northern Israeli communities, where many residents remain displaced. The U.S.-led body monitoring the ceasefire has approved a temporary extension. The agreement involves Israeli forces withdrawing from a buffer zone in southern Lebanon, which will be patrolled by Lebanese troops and UN peacekeepers.

Despite the ceasefire holding since November, Israel has emphasised the importance of a gradual withdrawal to ensure the security of its civilians.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun insists the ceasefire must be honoured, with Hezbollah leader Naim Kassem asserting that no excuses should delay the Israeli pullback.

Tensions in Lebanon are rising, with Hezbollah launching rockets, drones, and missiles into Israel following Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023, which led to a larger conflict in the region.

In Gaza, protests in Israel call for an extension of the ceasefire to secure the release of more hostages taken during the October 7 attack. Israeli officials believe several of the 33 people slated for return are already dead, and Hamas is slowly releasing hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Hamas' threat to delay the next release of Israeli hostages raises fears for Gaza ceasefire

The first phase of the ceasefire is nearing its end, but talks for the second phase, which could involve the release of more hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, have not begun.

Amidst these developments, U.S. and Israeli officials remain committed to eradicating Hamas, though this objective is seen as incompatible with the goal of bringing all hostages home.

Meanwhile, proposals for the future of Gaza, including a controversial plan for its permanent relocation, have drawn significant opposition from Palestinians and Arab nations.

Meanwhile, Israel is accelerating settlement expansion in the West Bank, with plans for nearly 1,000 new homes, further intensifying tensions over territorial disputes.