A crucial deadline passed on Tuesday for Israeli troops to leave southern Lebanon under a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. However, Israel announced plans to maintain a presence in five strategic locations along the border.

Israeli forces began withdrawing from some border villages, including Mais al-Jabal and Blida, on Monday, as the Lebanese military advanced into the area. Despite this, Israel remains stationed in key areas, citing security concerns and the need to defend its citizens.

The ongoing conflict, which has devastated southern Lebanon and Beirut, resulted in significant destruction, with reconstruction costs estimated at over $10 billion. More than 100,000 people remain displaced according to UN reports.

Many displaced residents are eager to return home, including Fatima Shukeir, who longingly recalled her former life in Mais al-Jabal. However, local authorities are urging displaced people to wait until the Lebanese army secures their villages for safe returns.

Under the ceasefire brokered by the US and France, Lebanon's military and UN peacekeepers were expected to deploy in the area as Israeli forces withdrew. Hezbollah is also required to retreat north of the Litani River and dismantle military infrastructure. Despite this, Israel's military confirmed it would retain strategic points along the border to ensure security.

Lebanese officials have rejected any further delay in the withdrawal, calling on international sponsors to pressure Israel for a full exit. The conflict, which began in October 2023, has claimed more than 4,000 lives in Lebanon and left the country deeply scarred by loss and destruction.

As tensions continue, Lebanon's government has issued statements calling for the disarmament of Hezbollah, calling for peace and the restoration of national sovereignty.