Daijiworld Media Network – Beirut

Beirut/Jerusalem, Apr 17: Lebanese civilians reportedly pushed past security barriers on the Al-Qasmiya Bridge over the Litani River on Thursday, attempting to return south despite warnings from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) advising them not to cross until further notice.

According to local media reports and social media videos, displaced residents who had fled northern areas at the start of the Israel–Hezbollah conflict are now trying to move back toward their villages via central bridges over the Litani River, which remain intact.

The developments raise questions over how Israeli forces will respond if civilians continue to return to southern Lebanese areas amid ongoing security restrictions.

Meanwhile, the United States has released details of a 10-day Israel–Lebanon ceasefire agreement that came into effect at midnight between Thursday and Friday. The truce, agreed upon by both sides, includes commitments to further negotiations aimed at achieving a longer-term peace settlement.

According to a US State Department statement, the agreement allows for a possible extension if both parties consent and if Lebanon demonstrates effective control over its territory and ability to assert state sovereignty.

As part of the deal, Lebanon has pledged—along with international support—to take steps to prevent Hezbollah and other non-state armed groups from launching attacks against Israel. The agreement also emphasises that Lebanese security forces will have exclusive authority over national defense and arms control within the country.

Israel, under the ceasefire terms, has agreed not to carry out attacks on Lebanese targets, including civilian and military infrastructure, unless in self-defense. However, it retains the right to take “all necessary measures” against planned, imminent, or ongoing threats.