Lebanese Army Prepares for Southern Deployment

The Lebanese Army is preparing to deploy to southern Lebanon following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah that took effect at 4:00 a.m. local time. Residents of border villages have been urged to delay their return until Israeli forces complete their withdrawal, as the ceasefire stipulates a two-month period for the withdrawal. The army warned of potential dangers from unexploded ordnance left by Israeli forces and emphasized the importance of adhering to military instructions for safety. Initial reports indicate that displaced residents began returning home amid celebrations, despite warnings from the Israeli army not to approach evacuated areas. The ceasefire follows over a year of intense conflict, which has resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread displacement. Both the U.S. and France have pledged to support Lebanon's army and economy as part of the truce efforts.