Recent clashes between Israeli forces and residents in southern Lebanon have resulted in at least fifteen fatalities and 83 injuries, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The violence erupted as villagers near the border defied orders from Israel's military to stay away from their homes.
The confrontations come in the wake of a ceasefire agreement that concluded months of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The agreement stipulated a withdrawal of forces from southern Lebanon by January 26, a deadline that Israel failed to meet, citing Lebanon's alleged non-compliance.
Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health reported that Israeli forces launched attacks on Lebanese citizens attempting to re-enter towns still occupied by Israeli troops. The Lebanese army confirmed the death of a soldier who was targeted by gunfire from the Israeli side.
Video footage from Kfar Kila in southern Lebanon showed residents attempting to return to their villages, some carrying Hezbollah flags and images of fallen militant fighters. Israel's military, however, issued a fresh order prohibiting residents of dozens of villages from accessing their homes, citing security concerns.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that its troops fired warning shots to deter potential threats and apprehended suspects deemed to pose an imminent danger. Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun emphasized the country's sovereignty and unity, pledging to protect the rights and dignity of southern residents.
The United Nations has called on both parties to recommit to the ceasefire agreement, with its peacekeeping force deploying to southern Lebanon at the request of the Lebanese army.
