On June 30, around 400,000 Lebanese people returned home to South Lebanon after being displaced by the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. This is only about 40% of the displaced population, as around one million people have had to flee their homes, resulting from the war since March. The return comes after the new implementation of a security framework that requires Israel and Lebanon to work towards ending the conflict, while the Lebanese Armed Forces gradually disarm Hezbollah.  Widespread destruction has prevented many Lebanese from returning, leaving them in shelters and displacement centers. Further returns are expected as safety evaluations continue across South Lebanon.

Lebanese Social Affairs Minister Hanine El Sayed told Reuters that these numbers do not represent the full story, as many Lebanese are returning to very little, and many remain displaced. “These are families that are able to return to something, at least the basic minimum,” El Sayed said, “The fact that the others have not returned means they have a much harder situation.” El Sayed added that many southern Lebanese people are attached to their land and are eager to return and re-establish their homes.

The return of displaced civilians shows the positive impact of reducing conflict and violence. Lasting peace will require immense effort from every group involved, as returning home is not the final resolution for those forced to flee. Many are returning to uncertainty and extremely limited infrastructure. Without strong and consistent reconstruction efforts, the progress made for those displaced may be fragile.

The current conflict is between Israel and Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed paramilitary group based in Lebanon. Tensions between these groups have existed for decades. Recent fighting started between them after Hezbollah, in support of Hamas, began firing missiles at Israel shortly after the Israel-Hamas war broke out. Israel responded by carrying out military operations and airstrikes in Lebanon. This is what led to the widespread destruction and displacement. Disagreements between the Israeli government and Hezbollah have long prevented them from coming to a peaceful agreement.

While the return of civilians is an encouraging sign, there is still much progress that needs to be made for people affected by this war. Reconstruction will likely take years, and a semblance of a normal life will be rare for many. Moving forward, progress will require cooperation and coordination from Lebanon and Israel and may even require international support. Additionally, maintaining the agreement is essential. Ultimately, lasting peace and progress will depend on whether conditions are created for long-term cooperation and recovery.