Lebanese officials reported that a minimum of 15 individuals lost their lives and over 80 sustained injuries at the hands of Israeli forces in southern Lebanon on Sunday. The 60-day deadline for both Hezbollah and Israel to withdraw from the region had expired, prompting thousands of Lebanese war refugees to begin their journey back home. The agreement signed in November aimed to bring peace to the region by requiring the withdrawal of both Hezbollah and Israeli forces, with the Lebanese Army and U.N. peacekeepers taking charge of securing the area. However, as the deadline passed, Israeli forces remained in parts of southern Lebanon, raising concerns about a possible prolonged occupation and renewed hostilities between the two sides. Israeli officials issued warnings to Lebanese civilians not to return to their homes in various towns and villages in the south.
The situation was tense as Lebanese civilians attempted to re-enter their villages along the border, only to be met with aggression from Israeli forces. Lebanese military personnel accompanied civilians in some border towns to ensure their safety, but clashes still occurred. This marked one of the deadliest days in Lebanon since the cease-fire was implemented in November.
The ongoing occupation of southern Lebanon by Israeli forces poses a challenge for the country’s new leaders, President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister-designate Nawaf Salam, as they attempt to assert political control and establish a functioning state. Any prolonged occupation could strengthen Hezbollah’s position and potentially derail efforts to disarm the group and consolidate military power within the state.
Hezbollah officials have remained committed to upholding the terms of the truce, but concerns persist about their activities in southern Lebanon. The Lebanese Army has expressed confidence in its ability to secure the region, despite ongoing tensions with Israeli forces. The situation remains fragile, with the potential for further conflict looming if the occupation continues.