Israel said its forces would remain in southern Lebanon past the 60-day withdrawal deadline set by a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah.

"The outline for the ceasefire in Lebanon stipulates that the IDF's phased withdrawal should be implemented within 60 days. The clause was worded this way with the understanding that the withdrawal process may continue beyond 60 days," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement Friday.

Israel said its forces will remain in southern Lebanon after UN and Lebanese forces moved too slowly under the truce with Hezbollah established in November, which remains unfulfilled.