Displaced Residents Asked to Delay Return to Southern Lebanon
BEIRUT: Lebanese authorities on Monday urged thousands of displaced residents not to rush back to southern Lebanon despite growing optimism following a newly announced agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending the wider regional conflict.
Municipal councils across southern Lebanon issued public notices advising residents to delay their return as security conditions remain uncertain. The warnings came after reports that the agreement, mediated with support from Pakistan, includes a halt to military operations across multiple fronts, including Lebanon.
Many displaced families, however, remain cautious. Residents sheltering in Beirut and other areas said they were reluctant to return immediately, citing concerns over security and the possibility of renewed tensions.
Israel Maintains Security Presence in Border Areas
Meanwhile, Israeli officials signaled that military forces would remain in designated security zones in southern Lebanon despite the broader regional agreement.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel would continue maintaining security positions and would respond to any future threats. He also reiterated Israel’s stance on preventing militant activity near its borders.
The Israeli military has conducted extensive operations in southern Lebanon in recent months, saying the actions targeted Hezbollah infrastructure. The conflict displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians and caused widespread destruction in several towns and villages.
Reconstruction Challenges Remain Significant
At the same time, Lebanese political leaders welcomed the possibility of reduced hostilities. Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri described the agreement as a positive step toward restoring regional stability and praised efforts to include Lebanon in the broader framework.
In cities such as Nabatieh, returning residents surveyed extensive damage caused by months of fighting. Many expressed hope for lasting peace but acknowledged that rebuilding homes, businesses and public infrastructure would take years.
Iran, a key supporter of Hezbollah, had repeatedly insisted that any wider agreement with Washington include provisions addressing the conflict in Lebanon.
