Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth on Sunday reported that at least 20 followers of the extremist Breslov Hasidim crossed the border into Lebanon on Saturday night during a ceasefire before returning to the occupied territories.

According to the report, the settlers infiltrated an area near the border, claiming it contained the grave of an Israeli rabbi. They reportedly fenced off the site and began restoration work with the intention of turning it into a permanent place of worship. The group asserted that "they are in talks with the army to establish the site as a permanent place of worship and that no one prevented them from crossing the border."

Israeli forces condemned the incursion, stating that "access to areas adjacent to the border fence is prohibited and dangerous, especially crossing the border into Lebanon, which is illegal under the law. The penalty for violating this law is imprisonment for up to four years."

December Incident: Settlers Established Encampments in Lebanon

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This incident follows another violation in December when Israeli settlers from the Ori HaTzafon (The Northern Skins) movement crossed into Lebanon and erected tents, laying claim to the area for settlement. Initially denied by the Israeli army, an internal investigation later confirmed that the settlers had crossed several meters beyond the Blue Line, marking another clear breach of Lebanese sovereignty.

At the time, an Israeli army spokesperson admitted that it was "a dangerous breach under investigation," warning that "any attempt to approach or cross the border into Lebanese territory without coordination poses a severe threat to life and undermines the army’s ability to operate effectively in the area."

Despite these warnings, the recent infiltration by the Breslov Hasidim suggests that settler incursions into Lebanon are becoming increasingly frequent. The pattern of violations is in line with broader Israeli actions that have continued despite the ceasefire agreement.

Over the past month, Israeli forces have carried out multiple attacks in South Lebanon, including targeting civilians and engaging Lebanese army and UNIFIL personnel.

Read more: Two martyred, three wounded in Israeli airstrike on southern Lebanon

Earlier today, Israeli forces opened fire on Lebanese civilians in the town of Houla, killing one woman and injuring several others, according to Al Mayadeen’s correspondent in South Lebanon. Some of the wounded were also detained by Israeli troops.

The attack took place as residents attempted to return to their homes near the Israeli al-Abbad military site. Undeterred by the risks, they had bypassed a Lebanese army checkpoint and an earthen barrier to inspect their properties. According to the report, residents were also searching for the bodies of martyrs in the town, which has not yet been officially declared liberated.