Hassan Fadlallah, a Hezbollah parliament member, accused Israel of targeting civilians returning home. Reuters reported Fadlallah’s statement, condemning Israel’s actions as violations of the ceasefire. The ceasefire agreement, mediated by the United States and France, includes a two-month period for Hezbollah’s withdrawal north of the Litani River and Israeli forces returning to their territory. Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers are set to patrol the buffer zone, assuming full control within weeks.
- Ceasefire Agreement: A U.S.- and France-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah includes a two-month timeline for Hezbollah’s withdrawal north of the Litani River and Israeli forces returning to their territory. Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers will assume control of the buffer zone.
- Casualty and Displacement Impact: The conflict has caused over 3,760 deaths in Lebanon, primarily civilians, and 70 in Israel. Displacement numbers exceed one million in Lebanon and 50,000 in Israel, highlighting the humanitarian toll.
- Accusations of Violations: Hezbollah MP Hassan Fadlallah accused Israel of targeting civilians in violation of the ceasefire, with reports of artillery fire and injuries in Lebanese border towns.
- Fragile Peace Efforts: Despite the ceasefire, both sides remain poised to retaliate against violations, with international players closely monitoring the situation for signs of stability or renewed conflict.
According to Lebanon’s National News Agency, Israeli artillery wounded two people in Markaba, with additional reports of artillery fire in three other border locations. President Biden, while announcing the ceasefire, stated that Israel preserves its right to self-defense. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of a severe response to any agreement breaches. An unnamed source confirmed the ceasefire followed 14 months of conflict, initiated after Hamas’s attack from Gaza.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has resulted in significant casualties and displacement on both sides. Lebanon reported over 3,760 deaths, primarily civilians, while Israel recorded more than 70 fatalities, including soldiers. Displacement figures are staggering, with over a million people affected in Lebanon and 50,000 in Israel. Despite warnings from military officials, many displaced Lebanese have started returning home, even though the situation remains volatile.
The ceasefire aims to de-escalate tensions and provide a framework for a more enduring peace. However, the situation remains fragile, as both sides have conveyed their readiness to retaliate against any violations. The international community, particularly the U.S. and France, continues to monitor the situation closely, hoping for stability and eventual resolution in the region.