Israeli gunfire kills woman in south Lebanon border town

Two days before the deadline of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, Israeli forces killed a woman on Sunday as residents of southern Lebanese border towns attempted to return to their homes. The incident occurred after more than a year of conflict, including two months of all-out war. This tragic event underscores the fragility of the ceasefire and the ongoing risks faced by civilians.

Lebanon's National News Agency (NNA) reported that Israeli forces opened fire on residents returning to the community of Houla, resulting in the death of one woman and injuries to three others. It was also reported that Israeli forces abducted four citizens in the town, including a paramedic. These actions further exacerbate tensions and raise concerns about human rights violations.

Under the agreement between Lebanon and Israel, the Lebanese army, along with UN peacekeeping forces, would deploy in the south, while Israeli forces would withdraw within 60 days. Hezbollah was also required to retreat north of the Litani River, approximately 30 kilometers from the border, and dismantle all military infrastructure in the area. The initial deadline was extended to February 18 after Israel failed to meet the original timeframe. Both sides have accused each other of violating the ceasefire terms, highlighting the challenges in maintaining peace.

The Lebanese army issued a statement on X, urging citizens not to travel to southern areas where military deployments have not yet been completed, warning of the dangers of unexploded ordnance and the possible presence of Israeli forces. Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Sunday that an Israeli air force strike on a vehicle in the Iqlim al-Tuffah region killed Abbas Hamoud, the head of Hezbollah's air unit, which was responsible for launching drones into Israel. This demonstrates the continued military actions despite the ceasefire agreement.

A senior Israeli security official said on Thursday that Israel was prepared to withdraw its forces from Lebanese territory within the timeframe stipulated in the ceasefire agreement. However, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri stated that the United States had informed him that while Israel would withdraw by February 18, it would retain a military presence at five strategic points in the southern Lebanese highlands, a demand that Lebanese officials have rejected. These five locations are scattered along the border between the two countries, including areas near the towns of Khiam, Odaisseh, Naqoura, and Ramyeh, posing a potential obstacle to a lasting peace.