Israeli Gunfire Kills Two Amid Escalating Tensions in Southern Lebanon

Israeli gunfire killed two people and wounded 17 others on Monday, as tensions continue to rise between Israel and Hezbollah. The violence occurred as displaced residents, seeking to return to villages where Israeli forces are stationed, were met with opposition. The deadly protests came just one day after a similar demonstration resulted in 24 deaths and over 130 injuries.

The ongoing protests, centered on the continued presence of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in southern Lebanon, have sparked outrage. Hezbollah supporters hoisted the group's insignia, leading the IDF to blame Hezbollah for provoking violence. A Christian Lebanese politician, Samir Geagea, harshly criticized Hezbollah for encouraging residents to return to their homes, describing the move as leading to "certain death."

Under the terms of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement in late November 2024, Israeli forces were supposed to withdraw from southern Lebanon by January 27. However, the deadline has been extended to February 18, after Hezbollah and other militias resisted the pullout. The Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers have moved into some towns, but the IDF remains in others, citing the failure of Lebanese troops to fully deploy in these areas.

Hezbollah’s chief, Naim Qassem, condemned the delay in Israeli withdrawal, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement and demanding an immediate pullout. The terror group, part of the Iran-backed "Axis of Resistance," has also suggested retaliation for Israeli airstrikes, although Lebanese authorities have advised against it.

Monday's protests focused on border villages, with displaced residents attempting to return, escorted by Lebanese troops and UN forces. Despite efforts, many were met with resistance. In the village of Aitaroun, residents and Hezbollah supporters attempted to march to their homes but were stopped short by Israeli positions.

The Israeli military claimed that Hezbollah operatives were among the protesters, carrying flags and images of slain Hezbollah leaders. Following violent clashes, the IDF reportedly dropped a bomb in the village of Yaroun to deter further attempts by residents to approach the border.

Criticism of Hezbollah's Actions

In response to the violence, Geagea, the leader of the Lebanese Forces Party, accused Hezbollah of recklessly endangering civilian lives. He criticized both Hezbollah and the Lebanese government for failing to prevent residents from returning to areas still occupied by Israeli forces. Geagea emphasized that the responsibility for protecting Lebanese civilians lies with the Lebanese government, not Israel, and called for a more organized, safe return for displaced people.

Hezbollah’s actions continue to polarize Lebanese politics, with critics accusing the group of prioritizing Iran’s regional agenda over the safety and welfare of Lebanon's citizens.