Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals on Saturday, marking some of the most severe attacks since a fragile ceasefire was established between Israel and Hezbollah in June.
Reports from Lebanon’s Health Ministry and state news agency confirmed that one airstrike targeted a residence on the outskirts of Ansar village, claiming the lives of seven individuals, including three children, and injuring two others. A second airstrike in Deir al-Zahrani village resulted in four fatalities and 17 injuries.
In June, Israel and the Lebanese government reached a “framework agreement” outlining Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon in exchange for Hezbollah’s disarmament. The agreement also included provisions for future peace negotiations between the two nations, which technically remain in a state of war despite Israel’s establishment almost 80 years ago. However, Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, did not participate in the agreement.
Israeli Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the airstrikes, stating that they instill fear among residents and hinder efforts to maintain stability in the region. He emphasized that the victims were not associated with military targets and called on Israel to cease its escalation.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed concerns that the airstrikes could impact ongoing negotiation efforts and American initiatives aimed at implementing the agreement.
Israeli military actions on the strategic Ali Taher hill were reported to have targeted Hezbollah infrastructure in response to alleged threats against Israeli forces. Despite the ceasefire, Israel has continued its military operations in the region, leading to heightened tensions.
Hezbollah, in a statement, urged the Lebanese government to address the aggression and cautioned against pursuing talks with Israel under U.S. sponsorship. The group emphasized that it would respond appropriately to Israeli aggression and violations.
Recent incidents, including the deaths of two Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, have escalated tensions between the two sides. Hezbollah’s reluctance to disarm and concerns over the Lebanese government’s concessions without guarantees of Israeli withdrawal have complicated peace negotiations.
The latest conflict between Israel and Hezbollah began in March, following cross-border attacks. The toll from Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon has surpassed 4,000 casualties, with significant civilian casualties. On the Israeli side, around 40 soldiers and three civilians, including a military contractor, have lost their lives.