Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon have resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals on Saturday, marking some of the most lethal attacks since a fragile truce between Israel and Hezbollah came into effect in June.
According to Lebanon’s Health Ministry and state news agency, one airstrike targeted a residence on the outskirts of Ansar village, claiming the lives of seven people, including three children, and injuring two others. Another strike in Deir al-Zahrani village resulted in four fatalities and 17 injuries.
Israeli forces and the Lebanese government reached a “framework agreement” on June 26, outlining plans for Israeli troops to withdraw from southern Lebanon in exchange for the disarmament of Hezbollah, a militant group backed by Iran. The agreement also includes steps towards a potential peace deal between the two nations, which technically remain in a state of war nearly eight decades after Israel’s establishment.
Hezbollah has declined direct negotiations and was not a party to the agreement.
The recent strikes represent the deadliest incidents since the truce was implemented two months ago. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned the Israeli airstrikes, stating that they instill fear among residents and hinder efforts to stabilize the region. Salam emphasized that the victims were not military targets and that addressing any military infrastructure within Lebanon is the responsibility of the state.
In response to the airstrikes, Israeli military operations targeted Hezbollah infrastructure in Ali Taher and Ansar areas. The military justified its actions as a response to perceived threats against Israeli civilians and soldiers. Hezbollah, in turn, urged the Lebanese government to counter the aggression rather than engaging in talks with Israel, accusing the U.S. of complicity in Israeli actions.
The ongoing conflict has seen casualties on both sides, with the latest violence occurring despite multiple rounds of talks between Lebanon and Israel. Hezbollah’s refusal to disarm and concerns over Israeli withdrawal have complicated the negotiation process.
The recent escalation follows a series of incidents that have claimed thousands of lives in the region since the outbreak of hostilities. Both military personnel and civilians have been among the casualties, underscoring the enduring tensions in the area.