Ceasefire Violations Lead To Israeli Fire In Lebanon

A man stands on the rubble of a destroyed building that housed his apartment in Tyre, southern Lebanon, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla)

State media reported that at least two individuals were wounded by Israeli fire in southern Lebanon on Thursday. The incident occurred on the second day of a ceasefire between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group. The ceasefire agreement, facilitated by the United States and France, entails a two-month cessation of hostilities. As part of the deal, Hezbollah militants are expected to retreat north of the Litani River, while Israeli forces are to return to their designated side of the border. The buffer zone will be monitored by Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers.

The National News Agency of Lebanon disclosed that the injuries took place in Markaba, a border-adjacent area, with additional Israeli artillery fire reported in three other nearby locations. No casualties were immediately reported. Witnesses in northern Israel noted the presence of Israeli drones and the sound of artillery strikes originating from the Lebanese side.

The Israeli military stated that it had identified individuals attempting to access specific areas in southern Lebanon in violation of the ceasefire terms. Consequently, Israeli troops engaged by opening fire on the suspects and affirmed their commitment to enforcing the ceasefire agreement. Israeli authorities cautioned against reentering areas where troops are stationed and reserved the right to retaliate against Hezbollah for any breaches of the truce.

Ceasefire facilitated by U.S. and France, entails two-month cessation of hostilities.

Ceasefire incident in southern Lebanon involving Israeli fire and injuries.

Hezbollah militants to retreat north of Litani River, Israeli forces to return to border.

Buffer zone to be monitored by Lebanese troops and U.N. peacekeepers.

Israeli military identified individuals violating ceasefire terms in southern Lebanon.

Israeli troops engaged, committed to enforcing ceasefire agreement.

Lebanese forces to gradually assume positions as Israeli troops withdraw.

Ceasefire ends 14-month conflict between Israel and Hezbollah following Hamas attack.

Over 3,760 casualties in Lebanon, 70+ in Israel during conflict.

Approximately 1.2 million displaced in Lebanon, 50,000 in Israel; some returning despite warnings.

A Lebanese military official, speaking anonymously, indicated that Lebanese forces would gradually assume positions in the south as Israeli troops withdrew. The ceasefire, declared on Tuesday, concluded a 14-month conflict between Israel and Hezbollah that commenced following an attack by Hamas from Gaza. The escalation led to extensive casualties, with over 3,760 individuals losing their lives in Lebanon, predominantly civilians. In Israel, more than 70 people perished, including civilians and soldiers.

The conflict displaced approximately 1.2 million individuals in Lebanon, prompting some to return home despite warnings from both the Lebanese and Israeli military. On the Israeli side, around 50,000 people were displaced, with few having returned as of now. The communities near the northern border remain largely deserted as the region grapples with the aftermath of the prolonged hostilities.

For more updates on the ongoing conflict, visit AP's war coverage.