Lebanese health officials reported that on the day Israeli forces were supposed to withdraw under a ceasefire deal, the Israeli army killed at least 15 people in the south. Additionally, at least 83 individuals were wounded as the Israeli army opened fire on those attempting to return to their homes, according to Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health statement on Sunday. These killings are believed to be a violation of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, marking the latest in a series of violent attacks since the ceasefire began in November.
While the ceasefire brought about a decrease in daily attacks on southern Lebanon, Bekaa Valley, and Beirut’s southern suburbs, Israeli forces have remained in south Lebanon to carry out demolishing operations in border villages. The situation in southern Lebanon on the final day of the ceasefire saw Lebanese army members driving through a damaged site in the village of Khiam near the border with Israel.
Under the terms of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire, Hezbollah was supposed to withdraw above the Litani River in south Lebanon, and Israel was to remove all troops from Lebanese territory over a 60-day period. However, Israeli forces were still present in the south on Sunday, with both sides blaming each other for not following the terms of the agreement.
Lebanese government officials have called on Israel to adhere to the ceasefire agreement and for citizens to trust in the Lebanese Army for protection and security. President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri have all emphasized the importance of Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
International reactions to the situation have included calls from French President Emmanuel Macron for Israel to abide by the ceasefire terms and statements from the UN urging displaced communities to exercise caution. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also emphasized the need for Israel to withdraw its military forces from Lebanon.
Despite thousands of Lebanese returning to their homes in the south since the ceasefire began, Israeli military restrictions have prevented some residents from accessing certain villages. Israeli tanks have reportedly blocked roads, and there have been reports of gunfire as some villagers attempted to return home.
The future remains uncertain as the Lebanese Army establishes checkpoints near southern villages to manage the situation. Some villagers have confronted Israeli tanks and soldiers, while others have fled amid gunfire. Israel’s decision to remain in southern Lebanon is seen as part of a broader strategy to reshape the political and military landscape in the region and ensure its own security.