At least 22 people were killed and 124 injured on Sunday when Israeli forces opened fire on protesters in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanese health officials. The demonstrators were demanding Israel’s withdrawal from the region in accordance with a ceasefire agreement.
The Lebanese Health Ministry confirmed the casualties, which included six women and a Lebanese army soldier. Clashes reportedly affected nearly 20 villages along the border.
Protesters, some carrying Hezbollah flags, attempted to enter villages to protest Israel’s failure to meet the 60-day withdrawal deadline outlined in a ceasefire that ended the Israel-Hezbollah war in November. Israeli authorities have cited security concerns for the delay, claiming the Lebanese army has not fully deployed to prevent Hezbollah from reestablishing a presence in the area. Lebanese officials have countered, saying they cannot deploy until Israeli forces leave.
The Israeli army issued a statement blaming Hezbollah for inciting the protests and confirmed its troops fired warning shots to deter “threats in areas of concern.” Several individuals were detained for questioning, the statement added.
The violence in southern Lebanon coincided with Israel’s restrictions on displaced Palestinians returning to homes in northern Gaza. Israel accused Hamas of breaching a fragile ceasefire by altering the sequence of hostage releases.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun addressed the situation, emphasizing Lebanon’s sovereignty and calling for restraint among civilians in the border region. “Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable,” he said in a statement. “I am working at the highest levels to ensure the rights and dignity of our people.”
Lebanese Armed Forces reported escorting residents into some areas while urging civilians to comply with military directives for their safety.
Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, whose Amal Movement party is allied with Hezbollah, condemned the violence, urging the global community to pressure Israel to withdraw. “This bloodshed is a clear and urgent call for international intervention,” Berri said.
UNIFIL, the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, and Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert issued a joint statement urging both sides to adhere to their ceasefire obligations. They cited concerns about the worsening security situation and stressed the need for Israel’s full withdrawal, removal of unauthorized weapons, and safe return of displaced civilians.
In Aita al-Shaab, Lebanese families sifted through rubble in search of remnants of their destroyed homes. “These are our houses,” said Hussein Bajouk, a resident. “However much they destroy, we will rebuild.” On the Israeli side, Orna Weinberg of the kibbutz Manara described the mutual suffering. “It’s a tragedy for all sides,” she said.
Lebanese officials estimate that over 112,000 people remain displaced, down from 1 million who fled during the conflict.
