Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals on Saturday, marking some of the most lethal attacks following a fragile truce between Israel and Hezbollah that began in June.
Lebanon’s Health Ministry and state news agency reported that one airstrike, targeting a residence on the outskirts of Ansar village, led to the deaths of seven people, including three children, and injured two others. The second airstrike in Deir al-Zahrani village claimed four lives and left 17 individuals wounded.
A “framework agreement” was reached between Israel and the Lebanese government on June 26, outlining plans for Israeli troops to withdraw from southern Lebanon in return for Hezbollah’s disarmament. This agreement also paves the way for potential peace negotiations between the two nations, which technically remain in a state of war nearly 80 years after Israel’s formation. However, Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, declined direct participation in the deal.
Israeli Prime Minister criticized the airstrikes, stating that they instill fear among residents and hinder stability efforts in the region. The strikes on Saturday represent the deadliest incidents since the truce came into effect, with previous casualties reported in Nabatiyeh Fawqa and other regions.
Despite the truce, Israel’s military continued its aerial assaults in the area, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in response to alleged actions against Israeli soldiers. Lebanese President and Prime Minister condemned the strikes, emphasizing the need for stability and denouncing the attacks as detrimental to negotiation efforts and American initiatives.
Hezbollah, in response, urged the Lebanese government to address the ongoing aggression by Israel rather than engaging in talks facilitated by the U.S., which they accused of complicity in Israeli actions. The group warned of a robust response to Israeli aggression and emphasized its commitment to defending Lebanon against external threats.
Recent incidents, including the deaths of two Israeli soldiers in a blast in southern Lebanon, have escalated tensions between the two sides. Despite multiple rounds of talks between Lebanon and Israel, Hezbollah’s refusal to disarm and concerns over Israeli withdrawal have impeded progress towards lasting peace in the region.
The latest conflict between Israel and Hezbollah emerged following cross-border attacks, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. The violence has claimed over 4,000 lives in Lebanon, with numerous civilians among the casualties, while Israel has also suffered losses in military personnel and civilians.