An Israeli strike on the Hasbaya region in southern Lebanon on Feb. 28, 2026. (Photo provided by our correspondent in the region, Muntasser Abdallah)
The municipal council of Khalwat, a village in the Hasbaya district, said Wednesday in a statement that "the allegations made" by an internet user, Nadine Barakat, about "the existence of Hezbollah weapons depots in agricultural warehouses and poultry farms in the area" were "pure defamation."
"We want to reassure our residents and the public in the neighboring villages of Hasbaya and Rashaya," the municipality emphasized, denouncing "false" accusations and incitement for the Israeli army to target Khalwat and its residents.
In this context, the municipality called on "the relevant authorities to take the necessary measures" against any person responsible for "these slanders," urging the population not to spread rumors that could sow discord and endanger security. It also invited citizens to report any suspicious activity to the municipality and official authorities, and to avoid spreading rumors and false information.
The statement, as reported by our correspondent, also highlighted the full commitment of the municipality's members to the government and its legitimate institutions, to the Lebanese Army, and to law enforcement, who "play a crucial role in preserving the country’s security and stability." "We call on all political, social, and religious forces to unite around legal institutions, to preserve the diverse social fabric, and to protect national unity," the statement added, recalling that the municipality works tirelessly for the security and well-being of residents and values any assistance in this regard.
"We condemn the Israeli attacks against our country, extend our condolences to the families of the martyrs, and wish a speedy recovery to the wounded. We also hope for the safe return of the people of the South to their villages as soon as possible," the statement concluded.
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