Jerusalem, Nov 27 (UNI) Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Wednesday instructed the IDF to respond decisively to any incursions by Hezbollah fighters into border villages where Israeli troops may remain active.

In a statement, Katz emphasised the recent infiltration of Hezbollah members into the Lebanese border village of Kfar Kila, instructing the Israeli Defence Forces to respond "forcefully and without compromise" to such incidents.

He underscored the need to prevent Hezbollah members from accessing areas in southern Lebanon where the IDF has restricted movement.

The ceasefire, which took effect at 4-00 a.m. local time (7-30 a.m IST), outlines the gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops from certain regions in southern Lebanon. However, IDF units will remain stationed in key areas to secure strategic positions and monitor compliance with the agreement.

The IDF has assured that it will notify civilians when it is safe to return to their villages in southern Lebanon, following the withdrawal of its forces under the agreement. UNI XINHUA XC SSP