Israel Conducts Airstrikes in Southern Lebanon Amidst Ceasefire Tensions and Diplomatic Talks
Israeli airstrikes targeted Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, striking launching sites and military positions in Houmin, Wadi Azza, and Nimeiriya within the Nabatieh area. These military operations come as a year-end deadline approaches for the Lebanese army to clear Hezbollah infrastructure south of the Litani River under a US-approved plan. Despite this, Israeli forces reportedly continue to occupy five points in southern Lebanon.
Israel has stated that the strikes violated understandings with Lebanon, while Lebanese officials counter that the ceasefire is being breached by Israel. Data from ACLED indicates that Israel has bombed Lebanon approximately once every four hours since the ceasefire began, whereas Hezbollah shelled Israel only once in the first week after the ceasefire.
A recent drone strike on Monday killed three men in a car about 10 miles south of Saida. Among them, Israel identified one man as a Lebanese army warrant officer and alleged Hezbollah member; however, Lebanon’s defense minister described the accusation as malicious, and both Lebanon’s army and Hezbollah denied the claim.
Meanwhile, Naqoura talks between Israeli and Lebanese authorities on the ceasefire continue, with civilian representatives participating for the second time. Israel maintains that its diplomatic engagement is separate from ongoing military actions.
Media reports suggest that an expanded offensive against Hezbollah is under consideration for an upcoming meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and US President Trump, indicating that Israel is advancing both diplomatic and military efforts simultaneously.
