For the second consecutive day, the resilient people of southern Lebanon return to their border villages, demonstrating defiance against the Israeli occupation and external dictates. Their steadfast resolve comes despite the Israeli enemy’s declaration, following the expiration of the 60-day truce, that it would not withdraw. The United States has reportedly attempted to prolong the ceasefire until February 18, seeking to circumvent Resolution 1701 and the ceasefire agreement.
This scene conveys a powerful message that the people themselves are the resistance. Any attempt by the Israeli occupation to “eradicate the resistance” would require targeting an entire nation—a reality the Israeli enemy is beginning to grasp.
David Azoulay, head of the council for the destroyed settlement of Metula, acknowledged this, criticizing the agreement with Lebanon as a “surrender deal,” stating, “Netanyahu signed an agreement of capitulation to Hezbollah, which is now returning.”
Determined Advances
Following Sunday’s fierce resistance, the Lebanese Ministry of Health announced today that 24 people were martyred and 134 others were injured in Israeli enemy attacks on southern Lebanon. Despite this brutality, the spirit of liberation continues to shine as people pursue their journey.
On Monday morning, citizens entered the village of Houla following the deployment of the Lebanese army in several neighborhoods.
In Ayta Al-Shaab, the Lebanese army, alongside returning villagers, advanced to reclaim the area from occupation forces.
Similarly, the army led convoys of returning families to Mays Al-Jabal, where Israeli forces are expected to withdraw despite ongoing gunfire.
From the western neighborhoods of Mays Al-Jabal, Al-Manar reporter Ali Shoaib described the gathering crowds, led by the army, preparing to reclaim the village’s center as Israeli occupation forces retreat.
Mobilizing from Universities to Southern Villages
Lebanese students also joined the movement, with gatherings reported at the entrance to the Lebanese University campus in Hadat. Groups mobilized to head toward southern villages, with a parallel rally at Hezbollah’s Educational Mobilization Center in Sfeir.
Yaroun and Marwahin: A Bold Return Amid Challenges
The Lebanese Army and residents of Yaroun reached the town square despite the ongoing presence of Israeli forces. Meanwhile, residents of Marwahin made their way back home on foot, passing through the Um Al-Tout area.
In Maroun al-Ras and Yaroun, residents displayed remarkable resilience, standing firm against Israeli forces hiding behind tanks, creating a powerful image of defiance and solidarity.
In Markaba, large crowds gathered at the entrance to the town near Bani Hayyan, waiting to enter alongside the Lebanese Army.
The influx of residents into villages in the western sector, including Al-Naqoura, continues to underline the widespread support for the liberation efforts.
Israeli Drone Attacks in Bani Hayyan
Amid the liberation efforts, Israeli enemy drones targeted a municipal team in Bani Hayyan while they worked on opening and paving roads at the town’s entrance. A bomb was dropped near the team, which narrowly escaped unharmed. Another bomb was dropped near the town’s cultural center, causing no injuries.
However, the Lebanese Health Ministry announced that one martyr and seven injured in the updated toll of Israeli aggression in southern Lebanon today.
The unified determination of the Lebanese people, supported by the army and resistance forces, underscores their resolve to reclaim their land and protect their sovereignty despite continuous aggression.
Source: Al-Manar Website