Key points:

• The White House announced the extension of Israel's troop withdrawal from Lebanon to February 18, 2025.
• Israeli forces have resumed aggressive tactics, killing at least 24 people and injuring over 130 amid protests over their presence.
• Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem stated the group does not accept the reasons for the extension, calling for immediate Israeli withdrawal.
• Violence continues in southern Lebanon with Israeli airstrikes and military engagements, further complicating the ceasefire conditions.
• Thousands of displaced Lebanese residents are attempting to return home as tensions mount.

In a recent statement, the White House confirmed that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to extend the deadline for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon until February 18, 2025. This decision follows a request from Israel for more time to comply with the provisions of the ceasefire agreement established after the recent conflict which intensified following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack in Israel.

Lebanon has expressed concerns about the delay, with its caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati articulating that the Lebanese army cannot effectively deploy in southern regions until Israeli forces complete their withdrawal. During a press briefing, Mikati stated, “We urge the international community to exert pressure on Israel to honor its commitments,” according to a report by The New York Times.

However, tensions escalated dramatically when Israeli forces opened fire on returning civilians in southern Lebanon, resulting in at least 24 fatalities and over 130 injuries, according to data reported by Lebanon's health ministry. The military engagement has been characterized by continuous violence, including airstrikes in the town of Nabatieh, resulting in multiple casualties (Reuters).

In response to the extension of the withdrawal timeline, Hezbollah’s second-in-command, Naim Qassem, vehemently criticized the decision and indicated that the group would not accept any justifications for prolonging the Israeli presence, which he publicly labeled a violation of Lebanese sovereignty. Qassem stated, “Israel must withdraw because the 60 days are over,” highlighting Hezbollah's firm stance against further delays in the location of Israeli soldiers (Reuters).

As protests rapidly intensify in response to the current situation, civilians in southern Lebanon continue to attempt to return to their homes, often encountering Israeli military resistance. An emotionally charged atmosphere has emerged, with communities displaying solidarity and calling for their rights to return. Activists and locals have mobilized, denouncing Israeli actions and demanding immediate safety and stability in the region.

International observers, including the United Nations, have continued to push for a resolute adherence to the ceasefire stipulations, acknowledging that any failure to comply could lead to further hostilities in the region and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis ongoing in Lebanon.

To follow the developing news on this situation, please refer to the original articles on Al Jazeera, AP News, India Times, and other reputable sources.