Lebanese army urges residents to wait before returning to southern areas

The Lebanese Army has advised residents in southern Lebanon to delay their return to areas vacated by Israeli forces, citing potential safety risks and delays in Israel’s withdrawal under a ceasefire agreement.

In a written statement, the Lebanese Army noted that the Israeli military had either not withdrawn or delayed its withdrawal from areas it was supposed to vacate as part of the ceasefire terms agreed upon by both nations.

The statement warned of the possibility of mines and unexploded ordnance in areas from which Israeli forces had retreated. Residents were urged to await further instructions from authorities before attempting to return to their homes.

The army emphasized that the Israeli withdrawal, which was stipulated in the ceasefire agreement, had not been carried out as scheduled.

Israeli withdrawal timeline and ceasefire violations

The ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel took effect on Nov. 27, 2024, at 4 a.m. local time. Under the terms, Israel was to withdraw from occupied areas in southern Lebanon within 60 days, by Jan. 26, 2025, and Lebanese forces were to gradually assume control of the vacated territories.

Despite the agreement, Israeli forces have been accused of continuing violations, including airstrikes and demolitions. Since the ceasefire began, the Israeli military has reportedly breached the truce 659 times, resulting in 38 deaths and 45 injuries.

The Lebanese Army reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of residents in the south and called for adherence to official guidance as efforts to secure the region continue.