Israel withdrew its troops in 2000 after 23 years from

Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon in May 2000 after maintaining a military presence there for 23 years. The occupation had begun in 1978 and was extended after the 1982 Lebanon War. Strong resistance by Hezbollah combined with international pressure forced Israel to retreat. The withdrawal strengthened Hezbollah and reshaped Middle Eastern politics. It was seen as a victory for armed resistance and influenced later conflicts in the region. The event marked a significant shift in Israeli security strategy and Arab Israeli relations.