Israeli forces have withdrawn from border villages in southern Lebanon as part of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement that ended the recent Israel-Hezbollah conflict. However, Israeli troops remain stationed in five strategic overlook locations inside Lebanon, sparking criticism from top Lebanese leaders who view this as an occupation and a violation of the ceasefire deal.
Lebanese soldiers have moved into the areas vacated by Israeli troops, clearing roadblocks and checking for unexploded ordnance. Many villages have suffered extensive damage, with homes demolished during the conflict and subsequent occupation by Israeli forces.
Residents are eager to return to their homes, despite the widespread destruction. Lebanese officials have condemned Israel's continued presence in the five locations, calling for a complete withdrawal as stipulated in the ceasefire agreement.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz defended the troop presence in the buffer zone as a precaution against potential ceasefire violations by Hezbollah. Meanwhile, the U.N. has expressed concerns over the situation but acknowledged progress made since the ceasefire.
Residents of villages like Kfar Kila are facing the daunting task of rebuilding their homes from scratch, with many structures completely destroyed. The conflict, which began with Hezbollah firing rockets into Israel in response to a Hamas-led incursion, has left thousands dead and displaced millions on both sides.
Despite the challenges ahead, villagers like Hussein Fares are hopeful for the future, eager to return home and start the reconstruction process. The road to recovery will be long, but the resilience of the Lebanese people shines through as they strive to rebuild their lives.
