''The entire region was up in flames': Residents of southern Lebanon live in fear of Israeli strikes and the fires they cause'

Residents of southern Lebanon are living in fear of Israeli strikes and the fires they cause. In areas under Israeli control, Lebanese firefighters require authorization to intervene, adding to the sense of isolation and uncertainty among villagers that remain inhabited. Many residents fear they may be forced to leave their homes.

The United Nations peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon, Unifil, has reported a marked increase in Israeli military activity in the region. According to Unifil, between August 5 and 16, an average of 137 projectiles per day were recorded, with 208 projectiles on one Saturday and 185 on one Sunday. This escalation has led to many families being displaced or forced to change their daily routines due to insecurity and uncertainty.

Israeli flags have been planted in Lebanese territory, including along a main coastal highway, which Unifil says is a violation of a UN Security Council resolution. The UN peacekeeping force has urged all sides to avoid provocative actions. According to the Jerusalem Post, Israel's military established a self-declared security zone in southern Lebanon earlier this year, aiming to shield northern Israel from attacks by Hezbollah.

Brief written by urgent.news from Le Monde English, Middle East Eye, Jerusalem Post — 3 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.