Residents Return to Southern Lebanon Following Israeli Withdrawal

The Israeli military has completed its withdrawal from residential areas in southern Lebanon, allowing many residents to return to their villages for the first time in months. However, upon their return, they are met with widespread devastation.

As reported by Israeli media, the military has left most of its positions in the region, retaining only five strategic locations near the border. This development follows a ceasefire agreement reached in late November, which mandated a complete Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon by mid-February. The deadline for this withdrawal had already been extended once at the end of January.

Israel cited the slow response of the Lebanese army in fulfilling its obligations as the reason for maintaining its presence in these remaining positions, expressing concerns over potential attacks from the Hezbollah militia.

Approximately 60,000 residents from northern Israel had evacuated during the conflict but many have yet to return to their homes, which have suffered significant damage. An Israeli military spokesperson indicated that the decision to remain in these positions was coordinated with an international commission led by the United States and France, which is tasked with monitoring compliance with the ceasefire agreement.

Israel's Defense Minister emphasized the commitment to maintaining security along the northern border, declaring that the military would remain vigilant and respond decisively to any violations from Hezbollah.

Throughout the ceasefire period, there have been no reported attacks on Israeli territory; however, the Lebanese army has accused Israel of conducting airstrikes in Lebanon, leading to casualties. The Lebanese leadership has reiterated its demand for a full withdrawal of Israeli forces, characterizing their presence as an occupation.

Following the Israeli withdrawal, the Lebanese army announced its deployment to areas that had been vacated, including towns such as Abbasiya, Kfar Kila, and Bint Jbeil. The military has been clearing roads and removing unexploded ordnance to facilitate the return of residents.

For many returning individuals, the destruction of their homes is disheartening, but they express feelings of relief to be back on their land, hopeful about rebuilding their lives. They acknowledge the challenges ahead but are determined to restore what has been lost.

This situation escalated following a Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023, prompting Hezbollah to begin its missile strikes on northern Israel, leading to a protracted conflict that resulted in thousands of casualties on both sides.