BREAKING: Deadly Chaos Erupts as Protesters Clash with Israeli Forces in Southern Lebanon

At least three people were killed and more than 40 others injured in southern Lebanon Sunday when Israeli forces opened fire on protesters who had breached roadblocks the Israeli army set up a day before, Lebanon’s health ministry reported. Demonstrators had gathered near the Israeli border to protest the presence of Israeli forces, who were supposed to have withdrawn from the area by a deadline set by the international community.

The situation escalated quickly as protesters, who were demanding that Israeli forces leave the area immediately, began to throw rocks and other objects at the Israeli soldiers. The soldiers, who were armed with riot gear and live ammunition, responded with force, firing on the crowd and causing widespread panic.

According to eyewitnesses, the protesters had been peaceful until the Israeli soldiers began to fire on them. "We were just standing there, shouting and waving flags, when suddenly the soldiers started shooting," said one protester, who wished to remain anonymous. "It was like they were trying to intimidate us, to scare us away. But we won’t be scared. We will keep fighting for our rights and our land."

The Israeli army released a statement saying that the protesters had been warned to disperse and that the soldiers had only fired on them in self-defense. However, human rights groups and international observers have questioned the use of force, saying that it was disproportionate and unnecessary.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from the international community, with many countries calling for an immediate investigation into the killings. The United Nations Security Council is set to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the situation and possible next steps.

For now, the situation in southern Lebanon remains tense, with protesters vowing to continue their demonstrations until the Israeli forces withdraw from the area. As the international community watches with bated breath, one thing is clear: the conflict between Israel and Lebanon is far from over, and the road to peace and stability will be long and difficult.