Israeli air and artillery attacks continued across southern Lebanon overnight and into Monday, according to Lebanese security and local sources, despite the announcement of a framework agreement aimed at ending the wider regional conflict involving Iran and Israel.
The Lebanese state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported fresh Israeli attacks near the southern city of Nabatiyeh, one of the region's largest urban centres and a key hub for surrounding villages.
Residents and local media reported explosions around the city throughout the night, while security sources said Israeli drones and artillery targeted several locations across southern Lebanon.
Israel did not immediately comment on the report but said it had been attacked overnight by projectiles fired from Lebanon. A drone was intercepted by Israel's air defences, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on its Telegram channel.
The renewed attacks on Lebanon have heightened fears among thousands of displaced residents who had hoped recent diplomatic developments might allow them to return home.
In a statement issued Monday, the municipality of Nabatiyeh urged residents who fled the fighting not to return to the city "under any circumstances" for the time being, citing continued security risks.
"We fully understand the extent of your suffering and deeply appreciate your patience and endurance," the municipality said, addressing families forced to abandon their homes and livelihoods during months of conflict.
Deserted towns
The local authority appealed to residents to remain in areas where they have sought refuge until an official announcement confirms that conditions are safe for their return.
Many towns in the region remain largely deserted and scarred by repeated bombardment. Streets that once bustled with traffic and commerce remain quiet, while displaced families continue to follow developments from temporary shelters, rented flats and relatives' homes elsewhere in the country.
The highway from Beirut to the south looked busier this morning, unlike in previous days, with some cars loaded with mattresses seen heading south.
"We decided to be the first people to return to the area of Zahrani. We will go to check on our home. If all is good, we will stay. Enough of this displacement," said Zeinab, a mother of four.
Israeli army in control of some areas
But people in shelters at the entrance to Beirut were still cautious and still listening to news before making any moves.
"I prefer to stay a bit until everything is finalized, as we are still hearing there is Israeli shelling near our area," said Ali who is from Habboush near the city of Tyre.
Many inside shelters expressed that there is hope now but were sad that they cannot go back to their villages or towns, as they are under Israeli "occupation now."
"I am from Kfar Tebnit where the Israeli army is positioned now. So for now my home is here," inside the sports stadium at the entrance of Beirut.
The continued attacks have cast doubt on hopes that the regional de-escalation efforts would quickly bring an end to hostilities along the Lebanese-Israeli border, where exchanges of fire and air strikes have repeatedly threatened to widen the conflict.
