Residents of southern Lebanon gathered on Sunday morning at the entrance of Kfarkila, preparing to return to their villages following months of displacement. Similar movements were reported in the town of Deir Mimas in the Marjayoun district, where several tents were set up as families sought to reclaim their homes. 

A statement published yesterday on social media called on residents of south Lebanon to "revolt against the enemy that occupies the border villages" and to gather at the entrances to the occupied villages starting at 9 a.m.

However, the Israeli army opened fire on residents attempting to re-enter the town of Yaroun, in an apparent effort to prevent their return. There were no immediate reports of casualties.

In response to the growing number of displaced residents attempting to return, Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee issued a warning, describing the situation as "urgent" and cautioning that any movement southward would pose a significant danger.

"The Israeli army has no intention of harming you. For your safety, you are prohibited from returning to your homes in the affected areas until further notice," Adraee said in a post on social media. "The ceasefire agreement’s implementation period has been extended, and the Israeli army remains deployed on the ground. Therefore, movement southward is still prohibited."

Later, Adraee issued a second statement, reinforcing the Israeli military's stance on the issue.

"As you know, the Israeli army has recently redeployed to various locations in southern Lebanon in accordance with the ceasefire agreement. This is intended to allow for the gradual deployment of the Lebanese army and the dismantling and removal of Hezbollah’s forces and infrastructure from the area," he said.

"The redeployment is progressing gradually, with some sectors experiencing delays that require additional time to prevent Hezbollah from reestablishing its presence," he added.

Adraee also called on Lebanese citizens to remain patient, emphasizing that further updates would be provided regarding when and where they could safely return.

"Do not allow Hezbollah to exploit you in an attempt to cover up the devastating consequences of its reckless decisions on Lebanon’s security. Until further notice, all previously issued instructions remain in effect," he said.

On Saturday, the Lebanese Army announced that its forces are now stationed in Aitaroun, located in the Bint Jbeil district, within the central sector, and in various other border areas south of the Litani River. The deployment is part of coordinated efforts with the Quintet Committee, which oversees the ceasefire agreement.

The army explained that this action was taken following continued Israeli aggression, including the destruction of homes in towns such as Aitaroun, Rab Thalathin, and Adaisseh in the Marjayoun district. Additionally, two airstrikes targeted vehicles involved in recovering the bodies of martyrs in the town of Taybeh, also located in the Marjayoun district.

The statement emphasized the importance of public compliance with official safety instructions and guidance provided by the military units deployed in the area. Citizens were urged to coordinate with local authorities to ensure their well-being.

The Lebanese Army reiterated its commitment to upholding UN Resolution 1701 and carrying out necessary operations across several southern regions, particularly south of the Litani River.

The ceasefire, which came into effect on November 27, was initially set for 60 days but has since been extended until at least February 18. Under the agreement, the Lebanese army is expected to assume security responsibilities in the south, while Israeli forces withdraw gradually.