Israeli forces remain deployed in parts of southern Lebanon north of the Litani River following the November 2025 ceasefire and subsequent U.S.- and French-mediated framework agreement, which set phased withdrawal timelines in exchange for Hezbollah's pullback south of the river and Lebanese Armed Forces deployment. The initial 60-day deadline was extended, with reports indicating a target of February 18, 2026, though Israel has signaled readiness to hand over areas to the Lebanese army only under monitored conditions while retaining positions at select strategic points—a stance Lebanon has rejected. Recent developments include Israeli brigade rotations out of the area after clearing operations, continued airstrikes and artillery fire in Nabatieh and Bint Jbeil governorates, and stalled trilateral talks ahead of an expected October round. These factors, combined with Israel's emphasis on maintaining a buffer against Hezbollah infrastructure, shape trader assessments of withdrawal timing amid ongoing diplomatic and security frictions.