Israeli forces withdraw from southern Lebanon as villagers prepare to return home

Israeli forces have withdrawn from border villages in southern Lebanon as part of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement that ended the recent Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Lebanese soldiers are now clearing roadblocks and checking for unexploded ordnance in the area. Villagers are eager to return home, despite many houses being destroyed during the conflict. Some have already pushed through roadblocks to check on their properties, while others wait for military clearance. Israeli troops remain in five strategic positions within Lebanon, which has drawn criticism from Lebanese officials and Hezbollah. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that these posts are necessary for security against potential ceasefire violations.