Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals on Saturday, marking some of the most lethal attacks since the fragile truce between Israel and Hezbollah commenced in June. The strikes targeted a residence on the outskirts of Ansar village, claiming the lives of seven people, including three children, and injuring two others. Additionally, an airstrike on Deir al-Zahrani village resulted in four fatalities and 17 injuries.
A “framework agreement” was announced by Israel and the Lebanese government on June 26, outlining a plan for Israeli forces to retreat from southern Lebanon in exchange for the disarmament of the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. The agreement also outlines steps towards a potential peace accord between the nations, which have technically been in a state of war for nearly 80 years. However, Hezbollah, which did not participate in the agreement, has rejected direct negotiations.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam criticized Israel’s airstrikes on southern Lebanon, stating that they instill fear among residents and hinder efforts to stabilize the region. He emphasized that the victims were not military targets and underscored the responsibility of the Lebanese state to address any military presence within the country. President Joseph Aoun described the strikes as a clear message opposing negotiation efforts and American initiatives aimed at implementing the agreement.
Israeli airstrikes early Saturday targeted the strategic Ali Taher hill, overlooking parts of Nabatiyeh city, amid ongoing attacks despite the truce. The Israeli military stated that the strikes aimed at Hezbollah infrastructure in response to actions against Israeli soldiers in the area, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding civilians and soldiers from threats posed by Hezbollah.
Hezbollah urged the Lebanese government to halt the aggression and cautioned against engaging in talks with Israel, accusing the U.S. of complicity in Israeli actions. The group warned Israel that its acts of aggression would be met with a fitting response. Earlier in the month, two Israeli soldiers lost their lives in an explosion in southern Lebanon, the first Israeli casualties since the truce. Lebanon and Israel have conducted seven rounds of talks, with Hezbollah resisting disarmament and criticizing the Lebanese government for making concessions without ensuring an Israeli withdrawal.
The recent conflict between Israel and Hezbollah erupted following rocket attacks by Hezbollah in response to U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. The toll from Israeli strikes in Lebanon has surpassed 4,000, including numerous civilian casualties, while Israel has reported around 40 military personnel and three civilians, including a contractor, as casualties.