Arabic version: لبنان يحث على الحذر للسكان النازحين بعد اتفاق الولايات المتحدة وإيران

Authorities in southern Lebanon warned people displaced by three months of war between Israel and Hezbollah against rushing home despite a US-Iran deal to end the wider conflict, as Israel said it would not withdraw troops from the south.

According to Arab News, the Lebanese government has not been informed about the details of the US-Iran deal, which was announced early on Monday. An official source confirmed that Lebanon was not informed of the terms of the agreement or the time of the ceasefire, leading to calls for caution from local authorities.

The situation on the ground remains precarious, with Lebanon experiencing significant turmoil due to an Israeli offensive against Hezbollah, which has resulted in approximately 1.2 million people being uprooted. Municipal councils in southern regions have advised residents to delay their return, emphasizing the need for safety amidst the uncertainty.

Despite the announcement of the US-Iran agreement, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared that Israel would maintain its military presence in southern Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria. Katz emphasized that Israel would retaliate if Iran were to launch attacks as a result of the events unfolding in Lebanon. This stance illustrates the complexities and challenges facing those displaced, as many remain hesitant to return home, fearing further violence.

As the conflict continues, displaced individuals like Mona Mazeh express their reluctance to return to their villages, citing a lack of trust in the situation. The ongoing military actions by Israel, which have included the destruction of villages in southern Lebanon, further complicate the prospects for a safe return for many Lebanese citizens.