Renewed Violence in Southern Lebanon as Ceasefire Expires

Following the expiration of a 60-day ceasefire agreement, tensions have escalated in southern Lebanon, leading to violent confrontations. Reports from the Lebanese Ministry of Health indicate that at least three individuals have lost their lives due to Israeli shelling, with 44 others sustaining injuries.

Despite warnings from Israeli authorities, local residents attempted to return to their homes in areas still occupied by Israeli forces. Eyewitness accounts suggest that gatherings of residents were reported in southern towns near the Israeli border, with social media platforms showcasing images and videos of individuals displaying Hezbollah flags. In a notable incident, a group of locals confronted an Israeli tank, while others gathered around military barricades, causing significant traffic disruptions.

Originally, the ceasefire was expected to clarify the positions of Hezbollah, Israel, and the Lebanese government by this Sunday. However, contrary to the agreed terms, Israeli troops remain stationed in southern Lebanon. Israeli officials have stated that their withdrawal will be postponed, attributing the delay to Lebanon's incomplete implementation of the agreement.

The United States, under its new administration, has also advocated for an extension of the ceasefire. The original plan required Hezbollah to retreat behind the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers north of the Israel-Lebanon border, with the Lebanese army tasked with preventing the return of the Iran-backed militia. Although the Lebanese army has advanced to several locations, it has yet to gain full control over the area, and Hezbollah continues to operate within those regions.

The Lebanese military has pointed fingers at Israel for the delays in their deployment, claiming that they have been unable to send troops to the region due to the continued presence of Israeli forces. Another critical aspect of the ceasefire agreement was the disarmament of Hezbollah, which has not yet occurred, leading observers to doubt that the militia will relinquish its arms anytime soon.

In response to the escalating situation, the Israeli military has been actively working to keep civilians away from areas where their troops are still stationed. They have communicated plans to inform residents about safe locations for returning home, urging them to remain patient until further notice.

Residents in both southern Lebanon and northern Israel continue to experience significant anxiety, with many choosing not to return to their hometowns due to a lack of trust in the establishment of lasting peace.