Washington, D.C. | The ADC denounces Israel’s blatant refusal to honor the U.S.-led ceasefire in Lebanon, further validating what the ADC cautioned in our November 27, 2024, statement: Israel never negotiated this ceasefire in good faith. Despite committing to a full withdrawal by February 18, Israel now maintains troops in five locations across southern Lebanon, indicating a flagrant intent to occupy Lebanese territory in violation of the ceasefire.
This is a predictable outcome given the intentionally vague language used in the accord. By stating that Israel “should” withdraw within 60 days, rather than mandating it, the agreement effectively reduced the requirement to a mere recommendation. This loophole enables Israel to claim it has suspended its obligations until other parties “fulfill essential commitments,” thus providing Israel with legal and diplomatic cover to continue its illegal occupation.
Furthermore, Israel’s “absolute victory” delusion perpetuates these cycles of violence and facilitates ongoing land grabs. This self-justifying myth not only emboldens Israel to invade lands in violation of international law, but also disregards the rights and sovereignty of entire populations—causing immense suffering and destabilizing the region.
Israel’s continued defiance is consistent with its broader history of ignoring international law in Palestine, Syria, and beyond, where it has repeatedly dismissed United Nations resolutions and International Court of Justice opinions mandating an end to its illegal settlements. The ADC therefore reaffirms its call for an unequivocal, enforceable requirement that guarantees Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanon—without conditionality or delay. Anything less perpetuates a dangerous cycle of occupation, fueled by the misguided belief that “absolute victory” is a viable strategy for peace.
We urge the international community, and especially the Trump Administration, to address this deliberate ambiguity and insist on precise, binding terms for a permanent cessation of hostilities and occupation. Only through genuine accountability can we break these destructive illusions and chart a path toward lasting peace and justice in the region.