Lebanese civilians return to ruined villages

Lebanese civilians have begun returning to their devastated southern border villages following Israel's partial withdrawal from the territory, marking a significant development in the aftermath of last year's conflict. The deadline, set under a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, saw Israeli forces withdraw from most areas but maintain presence in five strategic hilltop positions, which Israel claims are necessary for security purposes.

Lebanon's government has strongly contested this continued presence, declaring it an occupation and asserting its right to pursue all means to ensure complete withdrawal. The conflict, which began in October 2023 when Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel in solidarity with Hamas, escalated significantly in September with Israeli airstrikes eliminating much of Hezbollah's leadership and ground troops entering southern Lebanon.

The war displaced over a million Lebanese and tens of thousands of Israelis. November's truce agreement required both Hezbollah fighters and Israeli troops to withdraw, allowing for Lebanese army deployment to the border region. Despite the ceasefire, Israel has reportedly committed nearly 1,000 violations, resulting in civilian casualties.

The Lebanese government, led by discussions between President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, has called for full compliance with UN Resolution 1701, which mandates a weapons-free zone between the Blue Line and Litani River.

The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the implementation of the ceasefire agreement amid ongoing violations and disputed territorial presence.