Israeli forces in southern Lebanon on Sunday opened fire on protesters demanding their withdrawal in line with a ceasefire agreement, resulting in at least 22 fatalities and 124 injuries, as reported by Lebanese health officials.
The White House announced an extension of the deadline for Israeli troops to depart southern Lebanon until Feb. 18, following Israel's request for more time to withdraw beyond the initial 60-day deadline stipulated in the ceasefire agreement that ended the Israel-Hezbollah war in late November.
Israel cited the need for an extended stay due to the Lebanese army's incomplete deployment in southern Lebanon to prevent Hezbollah from reestablishing its presence. The Lebanese army, in turn, stated its inability to deploy until Israeli forces withdraw.
The agreement, monitored by the United States, will remain in effect until February 18, 2025, with negotiations commencing for the return of Lebanese prisoners captured post-October 7, 2023.
Israeli troops fired warning shots during Sunday's protests, attributing the unrest to Hezbollah's instigation. The Lebanese government urged residents to exercise restraint and trust in the Lebanese Armed Forces for their safety.
UNIFIL and U.N. officials called for compliance with the ceasefire agreement, emphasizing the need for the safe return of citizens to their villages along the Blue Line.
Amidst the ongoing tensions, displaced Lebanese residents expressed their determination to rebuild their homes, while Israeli civilians lamented the tragic impact of the conflict on both sides.
Over 112,000 Lebanese individuals remain displaced out of the 1 million who fled their homes during the war.
