Escalating Israeli Airstrikes on Southern Lebanon Amid Heightened Tensions
Israel conducted multiple airstrikes in southern Lebanon, targeting civilian areas and resulting in casualties. Defense officials reaffirmed their readiness to confront any ceasefire breaches, reflecting heightened tensions in the region despite a recent ceasefire agreement. The situation remains precarious as Israel continues to occupy key strategic areas.
On Sunday, Israel intensified its airstrikes on southern Lebanon, marking the fifth round of attacks within a 24-hour period amid rising cross-border tensions. Local sources reported that Israeli Apache helicopters targeted three prefabricated houses in Kefarkla, with one located near the Fatima Gate and two in the town center. Additionally, a helicopter dropped four sound bombs, but no casualties have been reported from this specific attack.
Previously, the Israeli Army struck civilian residences in Ainata, resulting in two fatalities, as confirmed by the Ministry of Public Health. Yaroun village was also hit in separate attacks. Earlier in the morning, an Israeli drone targeted Meiss El Jabal, killing one individual, while another airstrike in Yater left one dead and one injured, according to local officials.
Israeli Defense Minister publicly reiterated Israel’s stance, stating that the nation would respond robustly to any ceasefire violations. He emphasized that orders had been issued to respond to gunfire originating from Lebanon targeting an Israeli car in Avivim. An Israeli military spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, indicated that although no injuries were reported, an unoccupied car in Avivim was fired upon, prompting military patrols in the vicinity.
Adraee further noted that such incidences from Lebanon violate existing understandings between the two nations, which have faced over 1,500 ceasefire violations since the ceasefire was implemented on November 27, 2024. Despite the cessation of hostilities nearly four months ago, Israeli forces maintain occupation over five strategic hills in the region without a set timeline for withdrawal.
The escalation of Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon signals increasing cross-border tensions, with multiple incidents resulting in civilian casualties. Israeli officials affirm their commitment to responding decisively to any breaches of the ceasefire agreement, reflecting the precarious nature of security in the region. Continuous violations and military activities post-ceasefire highlight the ongoing instability and unresolved conflicts between the two countries.
Original Source: shafaq.com
