Residents in south Lebanon begin rebuilding as Hezbollah calls for Israeli withdrawal

Residents of Khiam, a town in south Lebanon, are beginning to rebuild after extensive damage from the recent Israel-Hezbollah war. Many are waiting for compensation from Hezbollah's construction arm for losses incurred during the conflict, which ended in late November. Israeli forces are set to remain in five strategic locations in southern Lebanon, despite a ceasefire agreement that called for a full withdrawal. Hezbollah leader Naim Kassem has demanded Israel's complete exit, stating there is no justification for their continued presence. Khiam has suffered significant destruction, with many homes reduced to rubble. Residents are slowly returning to assess damage and begin repairs, but infrastructure remains severely impacted, with ongoing issues like lack of electricity and water.