"Israeli" troops in south Lebanon in Jan. 2025. (Photo: Reuters)
Days before troop withdrawal, "Israeli" forces killed 14-year-old girl in Lebanon
14-year-old Khadija Atoui was shot and killed by "Israeli" forces on Sunday as residents entered the village of Houla, Marjayoun in southern Lebanon.
The incident has sparked outrage from the local community and activists.
Reports from social media sources, further revealed that the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) had placed fake bodies in some towns in southern Lebanon, attempting to stage martyrdom scenes. Those attempting to remove the fake bodies were reportedly shot at by "Israeli" forces.
Zionists are placing dummies on the street in some towns in southern Lebanon to appear like martyrs. Anyone that tries to pull the fake body is getting shot at.
— Hussein (@EyesOnSouth1) February 17, 2025
In Houla, 14 year old child Khadija Atoui was shot and killed yesterday by IOF, her body remains on the street as IOF… pic.twitter.com/MCda3hpqzf
Activists also reported that Atoui's body remains on the street, with "Israeli" forces blocking access and preventing medical personnel from reaching her. Despite repeated calls for help, the IOF has not allowed medics to retrieve the girl's body.
According to the Lebanese state news agency NNA, the "Israeli" army intensified its attacks in southern Lebanon on Monday, ahead of the Feb. 18 deadline for its withdrawal, with forces advancing into Kfarchouba, where Lebanese troops are deployed, and launching a combing operation in Mahlat al-Sawwan
Earlier this week, "Israel" Hayom reported that the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) are preparing for a complete withdrawal from Lebanon, they further stated that the current security situation allows for a full withdrawal from all points.
However, maintaining control over these positions would allow "Israel" to exert military influence, preventing Hezbollah from occupying key areas that overlook deep into "Israeli" territory and closely monitoring border settlements.
Read more: "Israeli" forces plan full withdrawal from Lebanon, triple post-war deployment
It also added that, since no orders have been received to exclude certain areas, the IOF is preparing for a complete withdrawal. However, the forces will be deployed at three times the number present before the war.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun confirmed on Monday that Lebanon is continuing its efforts at all levels to urge "Israel" to comply with the ceasefire agreement and withdraw by the agreed deadline, as well as to facilitate the return of prisoners.
In his statement, President Aoun emphasized Lebanon's ongoing diplomatic engagements with relevant parties to ensure "Israel’s" commitment to the terms of the ceasefire.
He underscored the importance of "Israel" honoring the agreed-upon timeline for withdrawal and fulfilling its obligations concerning the release of prisoners.
Under the terms of the ceasefire agreement, "Israel" is required to complete its withdrawal by tomorrow.