Macron tells Netanyahu to honour Lebanon truce as death toll from Israeli fire rises
French President Emmanuel Macron has pressed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to adhere to the ceasefire agreement and withdraw troops from Lebanon as Israeli fire claims the lives of at least 22 people in the the south of the country.
French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to comply with the truce agreement and withdraw Israeli forces still stationed in Lebanon.
In a phone call, Macron stressed the importance of restoring Lebanon's state authority nationwide and called for an immediate end to the Israeli presence beyond the agreed deadline.
Israeli army fire claimed the lives of 22 individuals in southern Lebanon on Sunday – including a Lebanese soldier – as civilians attempted to return home under the ceasefire deal.
The agreement, which took effect on 27 November, required Israeli forces to withdraw over a 60-day period, ending Sunday.
However, Israel announced plans to extend its presence, citing Lebanon's failure to fully implement the terms, leading to growing tensions and mutual accusations.
Sporadic violence
Lebanon's health ministry reported that Israeli forces opened fire on civilians attempting to return to villages still under occupation.
The casualties included six women and 124 wounded individuals.
The Lebanese army also confirmed the death of one of its soldiers and another injury.
Despite the ceasefire largely holding since November, sporadic violence persists.
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