Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire: IDF fires ‘warning shots’ as displaced people head home in south Lebanon

It’s a big day in Lebanon as the months-long conflict between Israel and Hezbollah will soon come to an end after the two warring sides accepted a ceasefire deal. With the news, displaced people in Lebanon started to pack their bags and move to head back home.

However, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Wednesday fired warning shots at several vehicles in Lebanon where movement is still restricted. Local authorities say that the incident occurred in the Lebanese village of Kafr Kila which is across the Israeli town of Metula.

The IDF says that the cars drove away after their warning shots. “The IDF will act against anyone who attempts to violate the ceasefire agreement, and will not allow harm to the security of Israeli residents,” the army said.

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Why were warning shots fired?

The Israeli military said that it acted on Defence Minister Israel Katz’s order when it fired the warning shots to prevent Hezbollah members from returning.

IDF reported that several individuals were struck by gunfire in Meiss al-Jabal, with the military stating that its focus has shifted from active combat in Lebanon to ensuring the enforcement of the ceasefire agreement.

The Army also said it is trying to keep people off from areas where troops are still positioned in southern Lebanon.

Displaced people head home

Traffic on the road from the Lebanese capital to the south of the country has been congested since the early hours, as thousands of people head back home.

AFP journalists saw cars and minibuses packed with people carrying mattresses, suitcases and blankets, with some honking and singing in celebration as Hezbollah supporters portrayed the truce as a victory.

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In Lebanon, more than 900,000 people fled their homes in recent weeks, according to the UN, as Israel pounded the country with a focus on areas where Hezbollah holds sway.

Lebanese parliament speaker Nabih Berri called on the displaced to go back to their homes despite the devastation.

“I invite you to return to your homes… return to your land,” said Berri, who led mediation efforts on behalf of his allies in Hezbollah.

With inputs from agencies