Beirut, Lebanon – Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon resulted in the death of at least nine individuals, as reported by Lebanese authorities on Monday. This represents the deadliest day in Lebanon since a ceasefire mediated by the United States and France went into effect recently.
The strikes, which took place in the Nabatiyeh governorate near the Israeli border, led to five deaths in Haris and four in Tallousa, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. Additionally, three individuals sustained injuries as a result of the attacks.
Despite ongoing accusations of breaching the ceasefire agreement from both sides, the fragile truce between Israel and Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah seems to be holding. Hezbollah responded to Israeli strikes by firing two projectiles towards Israeli-occupied territory, in retaliation for what they perceive as repeated attacks following the ceasefire.
Israeli military forces retaliated by launching strikes on Hezbollah terrorists, launchers, and terrorist infrastructure across Lebanon, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to respond firmly to Hezbollah’s actions. Furthermore, Israeli drones were reported flying low over Beirut and its southern suburbs, areas known to be strongholds of Hezbollah.
The United States and France have expressed concerns about Israel’s alleged violations of the ceasefire terms, with reports indicating over 100 breaches since the ceasefire came into effect. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar emphasized that Israel is committed to enforcing the ceasefire, particularly focusing on Hezbollah’s withdrawal from the Israel-Lebanon border area.
Hezbollah, in response, accused Israel of multiple ceasefire violations, including firing on civilians and conducting airstrikes in various parts of Lebanon. The escalating tensions between the two sides have put the ceasefire agreement at risk, with both parties accusing each other of violations.
Amidst these developments, the US State Department acknowledged that the ceasefire has faced challenges but overall has been successful. The truce, intended to last 60 days, seeks to establish a foundation for a lasting peace by mandating the retreat of Hezbollah fighters from the border and the withdrawal of Israeli ground forces from Lebanese territory.
As both sides navigate the complexities of enforcing the ceasefire agreement, UN Security Council Resolution 1701 serves as the basis for negotiations and establishing mechanisms for overseeing Hezbollah’s movements south of the Litani river. With UN peacekeeping troops, the Lebanese military, and a multinational committee tasked with monitoring activities, the hope is to prevent any resurgence of militant activities and pave the way for lasting peace in the region.