Thousands of displaced Lebanese residents streamed back to southern Lebanon for a second day as a ten day cease fire between Israel and Hezbollah largely held, despite sporadic Israeli strikes. Highways were jammed with families returning to heavily damaged towns, uncertain of what remained of their homes after weeks of bombardment.

The recent conflict killed about 2,300 people in Lebanon, according to the health ministry, and at least 15 people in Israel, including soldiers and civilians. Although the truce has offered a pause in fighting, Israeli forces remain in a security zone extending several miles into Lebanese territory, complicating the return of nearly one million displaced people.

Israel said it carried out strikes against individuals it described as militants approaching areas where its troops are deployed, actions it considers consistent with the cease fire. Hezbollah has demanded a full Israeli withdrawal and warned it remains prepared to resume fighting, raising concerns about the stability of the agreement.

Meanwhile, a French soldier serving with the United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon was killed and three others were wounded in an attack in the south. The incident underscored the fragile security situation as international forces continue to face violence amid the uneasy truce.