Numerous casualties reported as Israeli forces allegedly open fire on civilians in southern Lebanon
Israeli forces have engaged in gunfire targeting Lebanese civilians returning to their residences in southern towns, resulting in the deaths of at least 22 individuals and injuries to 124 others.
The Lebanese Ministry of Public Health announced the latest statistics on Sunday evening.
According to a post on platform X, the ministry has reported that the tally encompasses nine children and one paramedic.
In a recent development, Lebanon’s al-Mayadeen television channel has reported that Israeli forces have allegedly detained two Lebanese individuals from the border town of Houla.
According to various reports, an Israeli drone strike has targeted civilians in the village of Bani Hayyan, resulting in multiple injuries.
In a recent incident, an Israeli drone deployed sound bombs targeting a congregation of Lebanese individuals at the convergence of Houla, Majdal Silm, and Shaqra in southern Lebanon.
The deadline for the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon expired on Sunday, marking 60 days since the ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Hezbollah resistance movement was established.
Regime forces have yet to withdraw from the occupied territories, constituting a clear violation of the truce agreement and an encroachment on Lebanon’s sovereignty.
Over the weekend, the Israeli military issued a cautionary advisory to the residents of southern Lebanon, urging them not to return to their hometowns. Additionally, the military has erected barricades in the region as part of precautionary measures.
Following the outbreak of conflict on October 7, 2023, when Israel initiated a significant military operation in the Gaza Strip, Hezbollah has established a support front for Palestinian groups. In response to what they describe as acts of aggression, Hezbollah has conducted multiple retaliatory operations targeting sites in the areas under Israeli control.
Israel was compelled to agree to a ceasefire with Hezbollah on November 27, 2024, following significant setbacks in the conflict and the inability to meet its strategic objectives, despite the conflict resulting in more than 4,000 casualties in Lebanon.
**Lebanese Military Appeals for Calm Among Southern Residents**
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Lebanese army announced it is actively overseeing and monitoring the movement of civilians into various southern regions.
The statement reiterated an appeal to citizens, urging them to practice self-restraint and adhere to the directives of military personnel to ensure their safety.
President Aoun Celebrates Victory, Asserts Lebanon’s Sovereignty is ‘Inviolable’
President Joseph Aoun asserted that Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are “beyond negotiation.”
In a recent address from southern Lebanon, the speaker expressed solidarity with residents in celebrating what was described as a “victory of truth.” He urged the populace to remain calm and place their confidence in the Lebanese armed forces.
