Israeli Air Strikes in Lebanon Kill One, Wound Seven Amid Tensions

Israeli air strikes in southern and eastern Lebanon have resulted in the death of one person and injuries to at least seven others, according to Lebanese authorities. The attacks represent a significant violation of the ceasefire agreement that has been in effect since November 2024. The Lebanese state news agency, NNA, reported that the Israeli military conducted 12 air strikes across various locations, including the southern town of Bnaafoul and the area between Sarafand and Baysariyeh.

These strikes also targeted the Nabatieh district and caused considerable panic among residents. Witnesses described powerful explosions that generated shockwaves felt throughout southern Lebanon, with bright flashes illuminating the night sky. The Lebanese Health Ministry confirmed the casualty figures, emphasizing the impact of the strikes on civilians.

The Israeli military has stated that these operations were aimed at destroying Hezbollah infrastructure allegedly used for weapon storage in the Beqaa Valley and southern Lebanon. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun responded to the air strikes by accusing Israel of deliberately targeting productive infrastructure under the guise of security concerns meant to destabilize Lebanon’s economic recovery.

In a meeting with UNIFIL Commander Diodato Abagnara in Beirut, Aoun outlined plans to bolster the Lebanese army’s presence in the south. The aim is to increase troop numbers to 10,000 by the end of the year, enhancing border security following Israel’s partial military withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to implement all provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah and establishes a weapons-free zone between the Blue Line and the Litani River.

Israel’s military operations have raised serious concerns regarding stability in the region. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating that Israeli actions in Lebanon have led to the deaths of at least 4,000 Lebanese and injuries to 17,000 others since the violence escalated. Under the current ceasefire terms, Israel is expected to fully withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon by January 2025. Despite this, Israeli troops continue to maintain a presence at five border outposts.

As tensions mount, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for adherence to ceasefire agreements and protection of civilian lives.