Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals on Saturday, marking some of the deadliest attacks since the fragile truce between Israel and Hezbollah was established in June.
According to Lebanon’s Health Ministry and state news agency, one airstrike targeted a residence on the outskirts of Ansar village, claiming seven lives, including three children, and injuring two others. The second strike, in Deir al-Zahrani village, caused four fatalities and 17 injuries.
A “framework agreement” was declared by Israel and the Lebanese government on June 26, outlining a plan for Israeli troops to pull back from southern Lebanon in exchange for the disarmament of Hezbollah, a militant group backed by Iran. The agreement also aims to pave the way towards a potential peace deal between the two nations, which technically remain in a state of war nearly 80 years after Israel’s establishment. However, Hezbollah, not party to the deal, has declined direct negotiations.
Israeli Prime Minister Nawaf Salam criticized the airstrikes, stating that they instill fear among residents and hamper efforts to stabilize the region. He emphasized that the casualties were not linked to military targets and urged Israel to cease its escalation.
President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon condemned the strikes as a hindrance to ongoing negotiation efforts and American initiatives to implement the agreement.
Israeli military actions targeted Hezbollah infrastructure in response to alleged threats against Israeli soldiers. Despite the truce, Israel has continued its frequent attacks in the area north of the Litani River.
Hezbollah urged Lebanon to combat the aggression and accused the U.S. of complicity in Israeli actions. The group warned Israel that its aggressive behavior will be met with appropriate responses.
Earlier this month, two Israeli soldiers lost their lives in an explosion in southern Lebanon, marking the first Israeli fatalities since the truce. Hezbollah has opposed disarmament, criticizing the Lebanese government for concessions made without ensuring an Israeli withdrawal.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah reignited in March, leading to over 4,000 casualties in Lebanon, with hundreds being civilians. Around 40 soldiers and three civilians, including a military contractor, have been killed on the Israeli side.