Will the Israel-Lebanon framework agreement ease the agony of south Lebanon’s displaced?

Following the June 26 framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon, hundreds of thousands of Lebanese displaced by months of conflict have begun returning to their homes in southern Lebanon. Lebanese authorities estimate 1.2 million people were displaced, with approximately 400,000 returning within 24 hours of the agreement. However, around half a million people remain displaced, particularly from villages within Israel's "Yellow Line" security zone, which encompasses 64 towns and villages still under Israeli control.

Ali Al-Amine, editor-in-chief of Janoubia, stated, "Israeli airstrikes caused extensive damage to villages, and many homeowners and shop owners are reluctant to begin repairs or even replace shattered windows."

Those who have returned often lack basic services like water and electricity, and many homes are damaged. Uncertainty persists due to Hezbollah's messaging and ongoing hostilities, with the Norwegian Refugee Council reporting continued Israeli shelling and drone strikes. The framework agreement calls for Israel to withdraw from designated pilot zones and for the Lebanese army to deploy, but no Israeli withdrawal has occurred due to disagreements over zone designations. The conflict has caused an estimated $6.8 billion in physical damage, with reconstruction needs around $11 billion.