Israel Launches Intense Air Strikes on Southern Lebanon

BEIRUT, Lebanon — Israel conducted a series of intense air strikes on southern Lebanon on Thursday, marking one of its most significant military actions against the region since the ceasefire ended last year’s war with Hezbollah. Multiple locations in the Nabatieh region, situated about 12 kilometers (7 miles) from the Israeli border, were targeted.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported that the strike resulted in at least one death and left eight others injured. Thick plumes of smoke could be seen rising from the bombed hilltops, prompting residents to flee from the impacted areas.

The Israeli army confirmed that its aircraft targeted a site linked to Hezbollah but did not provide additional information. This claim remains unverified. Hezbollah did not immediately respond to the attacks, despite previously asserting that its fighters had withdrawn from the border in accordance with a ceasefire brokered by the United States.

In response to the escalation, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated he was closely monitoring the situation in the region. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the Israeli strikes, emphasizing the need for all Israeli violations of UN Resolution 1701 and ceasefire agreements to cease. He reiterated the Lebanese government’s commitment to advocating for Israel’s full withdrawal from their territory.

Although the truce officially ended hostilities, minor cross-border skirmishes have persisted. The Israeli military has frequently conducted air raids in southern Lebanon and has also targeted Hezbollah-controlled neighborhoods in Beirut’s southern suburbs.

Under the terms of the ceasefire, Hezbollah and other armed groups are prohibited from operating or storing weapons south of the Litani River. Moreover, Israel is required to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon, allowing the Lebanese army to take control of the region. Both nations have accused each other of breaching the agreement, with Israel maintaining troops on five strategic hilltops along the border.

The recent actions heighten tensions in the region and are tied to Hezbollah’s support for Hamas during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Notably, Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem, claimed the group has abided by the truce and no longer stores weapons in the border zone.