Israeli forces have opened fire on Lebanese residents attempting to return to their homes in southern Lebanon, killing 22 and injuring 124, Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported.
The violence erupted yesterday as displaced residents defied military orders and tried to re-enter their villages.
The incident marked a critical escalation as the deadline for Israeli troop withdrawal expired under the fragile ceasefire agreement.
In November 2024, the United States brokered a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah to halt prolonged hostilities. The agreement required Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon within 60 days and for Hezbollah to relocate its fighters and weapons 25 kilometres north of the border, beyond the Litani River.
Additionally, the Lebanese Armed Forces, supported by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), were tasked with securing the vacated areas to prevent Hezbollah’s reestablishment.
Delayed withdrawal
As the January 26 deadline approached, Israel announced an extension of its military presence, citing Lebanon’s incomplete enforcement of the ceasefire terms. Israeli officials pointed to the failure to fully disarm Hezbollah and the insufficient deployment of the Lebanese army in southern Lebanon.
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This decision angered thousands of displaced Lebanese residents, many of whom had been waiting months to return home. Defying Israeli military orders, they crossed into their villages, resulting in deadly confrontations.
The Israeli military claimed that its troops fired warning shots to remove “threats” near the border.
Among the 22 fatalities were six women and a Lebanese army soldier. Injuries were reported in nearly 20 villages along the border.
Lebanese media broadcast footage of wounded civilians, with local hospitals overwhelmed by casualties.
Israeli authorities maintained that their actions were defensive, stating that “individuals posing an imminent threat” were apprehended during the clashes.
However, the Lebanese government condemned the actions as “blatant violations of international law,” urging the international community to intervene.
Ceasefire extension
In response to the violence, the United States announced that the ceasefire agreement would remain in effect until February 18, 2025. The extension is intended to provide both sides with additional time to fulfil their obligations under the truce.
French President Emmanuel Macron urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to adhere to the ceasefire and withdraw Israeli troops immediately. Meanwhile, UNIFIL expressed concern about the deteriorating security situation and called on all parties to avoid actions that could escalate tensions further.
The situation in southern Lebanon remains precarious. Thousands of displaced residents are demanding the right to return home, while Israel insists that Lebanon must fulfil its commitments under the ceasefire.
International observers continue to monitor the region closely, urging both sides to uphold the fragile truce to prevent further escalation.
With the February 18 extension in place, all eyes are on whether Lebanon and Israel can navigate this volatile period and secure a lasting resolution.
