In a tragic turn of events, two people lost their lives and 31 others were injured as residents of southern Lebanon defied Israeli orders not to return to their homes. The incident occurred in several border villages, where tensions have been high following recent conflicts.

According to Lebanon’s health ministry, one person was killed in Houla, while two more died in the towns of Blida and Aitaroun. Dozens of others were injured and taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. The Lebanese government has condemned the actions, with President Joseph Aoun vowing to protect the rights and dignity of the country’s citizens.

This latest clash comes after Israel’s military warned residents of over 60 southern Lebanese villages not to return to their homes. A spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) emphasized that anyone moving into the prohibited area would be putting themselves at risk. Despite the warning, many residents chose to ignore the directive, leading to the deadly confrontation.

The timing of the incident adds another layer of tension. Israel had initially agreed to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon by Sunday under a ceasefire deal with Hezbollah. However, the Israeli government later announced it would not fully comply, citing Lebanon’s failure to meet its obligations under the agreement.

Lebanon’s leadership has been vocal in its response. President Aoun stated that the country’s sovereignty is non-negotiable and promised to address the issue at the highest levels. Meanwhile, the IDF maintains that its actions were necessary to prevent further escalation.

As the situation continues to unfold, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that prevents further loss of life. For now, the border region remains a flashpoint of conflict, with residents caught in the crossfire of a tense geopolitical standoff.