Lebanese Villages Reclaim Hope Amidst Ceasefire Tensions

Israeli forces have withdrawn from several border villages in southern Lebanon as part of a ceasefire agreement, but remain stationed at five key locations, sparking Lebanese condemnation. Residents return to war-torn homes, aided by the Lebanese army's efforts to clear roads and ensure safety in the region.

This week, Israeli forces vacated multiple border villages in southern Lebanon following a U.S.-mediated ceasefire which aimed to conclude the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Yet, Israeli troops continue to occupy five critical vantage points, a presence denounced by Lebanese authorities as a breach of the agreement.

Lebanese armed forces moved promptly into the vacated villages, addressing security concerns by clearing roadblocks and unexploded ordnance. Several returning residents found their homes ravaged by the conflict, while the military worked to restore safety by restricting access during initial inspections.

The Lebanese government, alongside the United Nations, expressed apprehension over the Israeli military's partial withdrawal, urging complete compliance with the ceasefire terms. Meanwhile, residents face the grim reality of reconstructing their communities, eager yet daunted by the destruction witnessed.

(With inputs from agencies.)