Israel withdraws from two villages after razing

Israeli forces have withdrawn from the Lebanese villages of Deir Siryan and Qantara, following a campaign of extensive destruction in the area. The withdrawal is described as a tactical repositioning to consolidate the boundaries of a planned security buffer zone, rather than a full retreat from southern Lebanon. The two villages were heavily razed during the offensive, with reports of fresh explosions as recently as this past Sunday and Monday, indicating Israeli forces remained until just before the pullback. Many residents were displaced, with additional reports of kidnappings and killings carried out by Israeli troops.