Israel opens fire in Lebanon at ‘suspects’ allegedly violating truce, which has entered its second day
The Israel Defense Forces took action on Thursday in response to alleged violations of the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. IDF Arabic Spokesperson Avichay Adraee reported that suspects, some arriving in vehicles, were observed in several areas in southern Lebanon, breaching the agreement.
Both the Israeli and Lebanese militaries have warned displaced Lebanese not to return to evacuated villages in southern Lebanon until Israeli forces withdraw. The ceasefire deal, brokered by the U.S. and France and approved by Israel, stipulates a two-month halt to fighting and requires Hezbollah to end its armed presence in southern Lebanon while Israeli troops retreat to their side of the border.
Adraee stated that IDF forces opened fire at the suspects, and a terrorist activity inside a Hezbollah site containing medium-range rockets in southern Lebanon was detected and neutralized through a warplane strike.
The ceasefire, now in its second day, was marked by Israeli tanks striking six areas along the Israel-Lebanon border, resulting in two injuries. Hezbollah affirmed that its fighters are prepared to counter Israeli aggression and will monitor the IDF troop withdrawal closely.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah began when Hezbollah, supported by Iran, initiated strikes into Israel’s north following an attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Israel has since targeted numerous Hezbollah leaders and infrastructure in Lebanon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked that by settling the conflict with Hezbollah, Hamas would be isolated in the Gaza Strip, enabling Israeli forces to address remaining issues there. Thousands of displaced Lebanese began returning home as the ceasefire took effect, with many expressing hope for a return to normalcy.
In Israel, the mood was cautious, with concerns lingering about Hezbollah’s continued presence and the status of hostages in Gaza. Displaced individuals like Eliyahu Maman from Kiryat Shmona remain wary of the situation and reluctant to return home amidst uncertainties.
As the region navigates the aftermath of the ceasefire, the road to lasting peace and stability remains uncertain. The impact of the conflict on the lives of civilians on both sides underscores the need for continued efforts towards reconciliation and long-term solutions.
