The airstrike, which followed the extension of the ceasefire agreement, has been confirmed by both Lebanese witnesses and the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that 14 people were injured as a result of the bombings.
This attack comes after the Israeli government officially announced that it would not be withdrawing its forces from southern Lebanon as originally planned. Despite the ceasefire agreement allocating 60 days for a complete withdrawal, Israel's senior officials informed the international community that the conditions necessary for withdrawal had not been met. Specifically, the incomplete removal of Hezbollah from the region and the lack of full control by the Lebanese army were cited as reasons for the continued presence of IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon.
Tensions have been rising in the region, with tens of thousands of Shiite residents from southern Lebanon attempting to move towards the border areas where IDF forces are stationed. Despite warnings from the IDF that their return would not be permitted, these residents moved towards the border in large numbers. As clashes broke out between the IDF and these residents, Israeli forces opened fire to disperse the crowds. Reports from Lebanon indicate that at least 22 Lebanese people were killed and over 100 were injured in the ensuing violence.
As part of ongoing operations, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) targeted a Hezbollah truck and another vehicle suspected of transferring weapons in the Chaqif and Nabatieh areas. According to the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit, the vehicles had been under surveillance and were struck after it was confirmed that they were transporting weapons intended for Hezbollah.
The IDF emphasized its determination to continue operations in southern Lebanon in line with the agreements made between Israel and Lebanon, despite Hezbollah's attempts to re-establish its presence in the area. "The IDF will operate against any threat posed to the state of Israel and its citizens," the military stated, reaffirming its stance on protecting Israel from any potential risks emanating from the region.
The airstrike and the resulting casualties highlight the ongoing instability in southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah remains a significant and volatile force. The international community continues to closely monitor the situation as Israel and Lebanon struggle to implement a ceasefire agreement amid rising tensions and regional conflict.
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