The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, established after extensive hostilities, is currently under threat as recent actions by the Israeli military have resulted in numerous violations of the agreement. Following the ceasefire's implementation on November 27, hostilities have persisted, culminating in airstrikes, drone activities, and violations reported on both sides.
On Thursday, the Israeli army executed 15 new breaches of the ceasefire, bringing the total number of violations to 823 since the ceasefire took effect, according to reports from Anadolu, citing Lebanon's National News Agency. The latest violations were concentrated primarily around southern Lebanon, affecting regions like Marjayoun, Bint Jbeil, and Hasbaya. Two civilians were injured when Israeli drones dropped bombs near their motorcycle, and another drone targeted emergency rescue teams conducting searches for the missing.
"The Israeli military has continued its aggressive tactics, resulting in serious ramifications for civilian safety," said local health officials, highlighting the toll of these actions. Recent statistics reveal at least 26 fatalities and 221 injuries inflicted by Israeli gunfire over the past week alone, as residents attempted to return to their homes.
The ceasefire, prompted by international mediation, was described as delicate, with the U.S. recently announcing the extension of the truce until February 18. This extension aims to facilitate discussions about the possible return of Lebanese prisoners held by Israeli forces, as confirmed by Lebanon's Prime Minister Najib Mikati.
Simultaneously, fears among local populations remain high. Many communities, like Kibbutz Manara, have suffered extensive damage from conflicts. Residents joke grimly about their proximity to Hezbollah forces, and many of them remain displaced—around 60,000 Israelis were evacuated from border areas. Although hopes for reconstruction exist, locals express skepticism about returning to what some call a 'war zone.' "We are trying to understand what we can fix, what we can do to prepare for the next round of fighting," said Igor Abramovich, one of the few residents who remained during the war.
Damage assessments reveal the extent of devastation. Of the kibbutz's 157 homes, 110 suffered damage, and 38 were completely destroyed, raising reconstruction needs to around $40 million. The community is slowly reviving; recent gatherings to work on their community garden gave residents hope amid uncertainty.
Hezbollah's strong military presence posed challenges during the ceasefire period, with the group launching reconnaissance drones and rockets toward Israeli territories. On one occasion, Israeli drones intercepted a Hezbollah reconnaissance drone. Further complicity arose when Israeli air strikes targeted supposed Hezbollah weapon sites, leading to civilian casualties and raised concerns over the continued hostilities.
The volatile narrative hasn't gone unnoticed internationally. Hezbollah representatives condemned the lack of accountability from global powers, with calls for addressing the crisis. Mohammad Raad, head of Hezbollah’s parliamentary bloc, criticized the “chronic international indifference” toward Israeli violations, asserting the Lebanese people's right to retaliate against aggression.
Health authorities have reported at least 4,080 fatalities since Israel's military operations began against Lebanon, exacerbated by the onslaught since the conflict reignited last year. Local authorities urge international actors to mediate effectively to uphold the ceasefire and advocate for humanitarian conditions.
The residents of border communities reflect on their precarious situation, caught between the aftermath of violence and hope for restoration. Strikingly, numerous families express reluctance to return home due to safety concerns, coupled with numerous obstacles needing resolution before their return can even be considered. Their future appears suspended between desire and fear as they navigate rebuilding their lives amid uncertainty and turbulence.
There is palpable tension around the continued violations, the community rebuilding process, and the unresolved fates of those held by either side. The coming weeks will be decisive, as residents and officials await clarity on whether the latest agreements can yield lasting peace or if the conflict will re-escalate, leading to more devastation."