Residents of southern Lebanese border towns demanded that the government maintain a security presence after authorities announced the withdrawal of the Lebanese army and other security forces from the area.

“We won’t accept being abandoned in Rmeish, Ain Ebel, and Debel,” said Father Najib Al-Amil, priest of the Rmeish parish, as dozens of residents gathered at Our Lady Church in Ain Ebel to protest the decision.

“People here would rather stay in their homes and face the risks than be forced to live in palaces abroad. We’re asking the State not to leave us behind," he stressed. 

Ain Ebel Mayor Ayoub Khreish described the announcement as a shock.

“The government has decided to pull out. We want to stay on our land, but we needed the army here to protect us. Now, with the troops leaving, we have no idea what’s going to happen,” he said.

Earlier, residents of Ain Ebel issued a statement warning that the withdrawal of security forces would put civilians at immediate risk. They highlighted the army’s role in ensuring safe delivery of supplies and fuel, and in accompanying residents traveling within and beyond the town.

“This is not a role you can just walk away from—it needs to be reinforced,” the statement said. “Pulling out now would put all of these efforts at risk and leave residents exposed in a highly sensitive security environment.”

The statement emphasized that the community has chosen to remain in their homes despite the threats, seeking only the protection of the state.

“The Lebanese army and security forces are the last line of defense for our people. Their presence gives us stability and confidence, while their absence opens the door to uncertainty and greater danger for civilians,” it said.

Residents called on authorities to reverse the withdrawal decision immediately and either maintain or even strengthen security positions.

“At this stage, we cannot afford a security vacuum or the abandonment of responsibility,” the statement said. “Don’t leave us alone. We want our State here, with us, now.”