Deadly Israeli Strikes Escalate Tensions in Lebanon
Israeli airstrikes killed 14 people and injured 37 on Sunday, according to Lebanon’s health ministry, as tensions continued to rise despite an ongoing ceasefire. The victims reportedly included two children and two women, highlighting the growing civilian toll.
At the same time, Israel confirmed that one of its soldiers was killed, underscoring the fragile nature of the current truce.
Evacuation Warnings Beyond the Buffer Zone
The Israeli military urged residents in seven towns to evacuate areas beyond the previously established buffer zone in southern Lebanon. Civilians were advised to move north and west to avoid potential escalation.
These towns are located north of the Litani River, outside the zone currently occupied by Israeli forces, where military operations have continued despite the ceasefire.
Israel Accuses Hezbollah of Ceasefire Violations
In an official statement, the Israeli military accused Hezbollah of breaching the ceasefire agreement. Israeli forces said they targeted Hezbollah fighters, rocket launchers, and weapons storage sites as part of their response.
Speaking from Jerusalem, Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israel’s actions are guided by national security priorities.
“We are acting decisively to protect our citizens, our soldiers, and our communities,” Netanyahu said, adding that operations are being carried out in coordination with agreements involving the United States and Lebanon.
Hezbollah Vows to Continue Attacks
Hezbollah responded by stating it would not halt its attacks on Israeli forces operating inside Lebanon or on northern Israeli towns as long as Israel continues what it describes as ceasefire violations.
The Iran-backed group also criticized ongoing diplomatic efforts, arguing they have failed to produce meaningful results, and expressed distrust toward Lebanese authorities for not adequately protecting the country.
Rising Clashes and Military Escalation
Earlier in the day, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for attacks on Israeli troops within Lebanon, including a strike on a rescue unit sent to evacuate wounded soldiers. Israel confirmed one soldier was killed and six others were injured.
Additionally, the Israeli military reported intercepting three drones before they entered Israeli airspace, following air raid sirens in northern Israel.
Ceasefire Under Pressure
The ceasefire, brokered by the United States and in effect since April 16, was intended to reduce hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. While it has led to a decline in large-scale fighting, both sides continue to exchange fire and accuse each other of violations.
Mounting Casualties Since Conflict Escalation
Since the latest escalation began on March 2, more than 2,500 people have been killed in Israeli strikes, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. This includes 277 women, 177 children, and 100 medical personnel.
The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and fighters, and Hezbollah has not provided an official total of its casualties, although dozens of fighters have reportedly been buried in recent days.
On the Israeli side, authorities report that Hezbollah attacks have killed two civilians, while 16 Israeli soldiers have died in Lebanon since the conflict intensified.
