Israel Demands "Total Demilitarization of Gaza" as Lebanese Civil Defense Recovers 23 Bodies
Situation Update
France Calls for Full Israeli Withdrawal from Lebanon
The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Southern Lebanon on Tuesday evening. However, the ministry reiterated the "necessity" for a complete withdrawal "as soon as possible."
The ministry noted that Israeli defense forces were still present in five positions within Lebanese territory. It emphasized the need for a total withdrawal of Israeli forces in accordance with the ceasefire agreement reached between Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel in November 2024.
Lebanese Civil Defense Recovers Bodies
The Lebanese Civil Defense announced the recovery of 23 bodies from several border towns on Tuesday, following the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Southern Lebanon under the ceasefire agreement. Bodies were found in Mais al-Jabal, Markaba, Kfar Kila, and Odaisseh.
Lebanon Declares Israeli Presence "Occupation"
Lebanon stated on Tuesday that any remaining Israeli presence on its territory constitutes "occupation." This comes after Israel maintained its presence in five positions in Southern Lebanon, despite the expiration of the deadline for its withdrawal specified in the truce agreement.
Hezbollah Calls for Large-Scale Participation in Funeral
The head of Hezbollah, Naim Qassem, called for "massive participation" in the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, the former Hezbollah leader who was killed in an Israeli airstrike in September 2024. The funeral will take place on Sunday.
The Lebanese Civil Aviation Authority announced that Beirut International Airport will be closed for four hours on Sunday for the funerals of Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine, another prominent Hezbollah figure.
Israel Demands Demilitarization of Gaza
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar declared on Tuesday that Israel is demanding "total demilitarization of Gaza" after the recent conflict. He emphasized that Israel would not tolerate the continued presence of Hamas or other terrorist groups in Gaza.
Additional Details
- Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that Israel is committed to securing the release of all its hostages and achieving the government’s objectives for the war.
- Hezbollah’s new leader, Naim Qassem, urged Shia Muslims to join Hezbollah and support the movement’s goals.
- Lebanese Prime Minister Rafic Hariri called for national unity and reconciliation after the conflict.
- The United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting to discuss the situation in the Middle East.
- International humanitarian organizations expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon.
