Lebanon-Israel 10-Day Ceasefire Begins as Thousands Return Home

A 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel took effect Friday morning, bringing temporary relief to a region hit by weeks of conflict.

Thousands of Lebanese residents began returning to their homes, particularly in southern Lebanon where Israel had conducted bombing campaigns for over a month. In the city of Sidon, car caravans filled the roads as displaced families headed home. Residents waved flags and celebrated the temporary truce.

Celebratory gunfire could be heard in Beirut, Lebanon's capital, as news of the ceasefire spread. However, the Lebanese military reported some violations of the agreement, though details remain unclear.

Southern Lebanon has faced heavy bombardment during the recent fighting, forcing many families to flee their homes and seek shelter elsewhere in the country. The ceasefire gives these displaced residents their first chance in weeks to return and assess damage to their communities.

Leaders from both countries have welcomed the agreement, though the temporary nature of the 10-day deal leaves questions about longer-term peace in the region.