November Truce
How is Lebanon responding to Israeli military presence on its territory?
Lebanon has officially declared that any Israeli presence on its soil now constitutes an occupation. This significant statement comes after the deadline for complete Israeli withdrawal has passed without Israel fully complying. The Lebanese government is attempting to assert its sovereignty in response to continued Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon. This declaration represents an escalation in diplomatic tensions, as Lebanon frames the Israeli presence not merely as a border dispute or military operation, but as an illegal occupation of sovereign territory.
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Al Jazeera English
00:01 - 00:38
What is the current status of the hostage releases in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal?
According to correspondent Mark Loewen, 14 hostages still remain in Hamas custody. The current exchange plan involves four deceased hostages being handed over to Israel on Thursday, six living hostages to be released on Saturday, and four more deceased hostages expected next week. This sequence will complete the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, bringing all hostages from this initial negotiation phase back to Israel. The systematic release represents significant progress in the implementation of the deal, though the tragic reality includes both living hostages and those who did not survive captivity.
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BBC News
00:25 - 00:47
How many hostages remain in Gaza as phase one of the ceasefire deal nears completion?
According to Mark Loewen's report, 14 hostages still remain in Gaza and have not yet returned to Israel. The correspondent outlines the planned release schedule: four dead bodies to be handed over on Thursday, six living hostages on Saturday, and four more dead bodies the following week according to Hamas. These final 14 exchanges will complete the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. This structured handover marks a significant milestone in the ongoing negotiations, setting the stage for discussions about phase two of the deal.
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BBC News
00:14 - 00:47
What is the current status of hostage negotiations between Hamas and Israel?
Despite a snag in the negotiations that raised concerns about possible stalling, the hostage-prisoner exchanges appear to be moving forward. There has been significant diplomatic effort from Qatar and Egypt working through back channels to facilitate progress. While strong language has been used by all parties involved in the negotiations, current indicators suggest positive momentum in the right direction. The developments signal that despite the previous back-and-forth tensions, the parties are working toward continuing the exchange process as planned.
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ABC News
02:26 - 02:52
What is the withdrawal timeline for Israeli troops from southern Lebanon under the November truce?
Under the November truce, Israeli troops were granted approximately 60 days to withdraw from southern Lebanon. This timeline follows their ground offensive against Hezbollah fighters that had been ongoing since early October. The withdrawal agreement is part of the broader context of UN Resolution 1701, which calls for Israel's complete withdrawal from Lebanese territory. This arrangement comes amid rising tensions in the region, as Israel continues military operations while facing domestic protests calling for the release of hostages held by Hamas.
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WION
03:25 - 03:36
What is the timeline for Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon according to the November truce?
Under the November truce, Israeli troops were initially granted about 60 days to withdraw from southern Lebanon, where they had been conducting a ground offensive against Hezbollah fighters since early October. This withdrawal deadline was subsequently extended until February 18th. The extension was agreed upon by Israeli and Lebanese officials, along with foreign diplomats, who anticipated that Israel would maintain some military presence in the region. This withdrawal follows Israel's military operations in southern Lebanon, which had been ongoing as part of their conflict with Hezbollah forces.
Watch clip answer (00:21m)
WION
03:25 - 03:46