Mon Jan 27 17:26:01 UTC 2025: ## Renewed Clashes in South Lebanon as Residents Defy Israeli Forces

**BEIRUT, Lebanon** – At least two people were killed and seventeen wounded on Monday as Lebanese residents, backed by Hezbollah, attempted to return to their villages in southern Lebanon, defying an ongoing Israeli military presence. This follows Sunday’s deadly clashes where 24 protesters were killed and over 130 injured after Israeli forces opened fire on crowds breaching border roadblocks.

The violence erupted amidst a delayed withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, a key provision of a US-brokered ceasefire that was extended until February 18th. While the Lebanese army and UN peacekeepers have deployed to some areas, Israeli troops remain stationed in numerous villages, sparking protests from displaced residents eager to return home.

Monday’s protests saw unarmed civilians, some waving Hezbollah flags, marching towards Israeli positions in villages like Aitaroun and Bint Jbeil. The Israeli military responded with live fire, citing warnings to demonstrators who approached too closely. The Israeli military also dropped a bomb near Yaroun to deter residents. Hezbollah is accused by Israel of instigating the protests.

The Lebanese government accused Israel of impeding the Lebanese army’s deployment by failing to withdraw swiftly enough. Israel, however, claims the Lebanese army is not deploying quickly enough to secure the region. Both sides have accused each other of multiple ceasefire violations since the November 27th agreement.

Despite the renewed violence, some analysts believe a major escalation is unlikely. Hilal Khashan, a political science professor at the American University of Beirut, suggests Hezbollah’s primary goal is now to consolidate its gains within Lebanon, rather than seeking further conflict with Israel. The protests, however, represent a clear show of defiance by Hezbollah and its supporters against the continued Israeli presence. The situation remains tense, with accusations of ceasefire violations flying from both sides.

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