Villagers in southern Lebanon prepare to return home as Israeli army withdraws under ceasefire deal

Israeli forces withdrew from southern Lebanon's border villages as part of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement but maintained a presence in five strategic locations. The withdrawal left behind widespread destruction, especially in Kfar Kila, where 90 per cent of homes were destroyed. Lebanese officials and Hezbollah criticized Israel's continued presence, calling it an occupation and a violation of the ceasefire. The conflict, which began in October 2023, resulted in thousands of deaths and significant displacement in both Lebanon and Israel.