Israel’s military conducted an airstrike on a Hezbollah militant in Beirut, marking the second strike since a November ceasefire. The Israeli military cited a threat to civilians as justification. Hezbollah condemned the aggression, denying responsibility for rocket fire that provoked the attack. Despite the ceasefire terms, Israel continues to maintain troops in strategic areas of Lebanon.
Israel’s military conducted an airstrike on a southern suburb of Beirut early on Tuesday, targeting a Hezbollah militant. This operation represents the second such strike since the November ceasefire, which has been under strain. The bombing follows a previous strike in the region and raises concerns about the ceasefire’s stability between Israel and the Iran-aligned group.
In a statement, the Israeli military asserted that the strike aimed at a Hezbollah terrorist who had recently coordinated with Hamas operatives to orchestrate a significant imminent attack on Israeli civilians. Although the individual was not named, the military emphasized its objective to eliminate the threat within Hezbollah’s stronghold in Dahieh.
This latest action came in the wake of a warning from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who stated that Israel would retaliate against any threats emanating from Lebanon. This follows instances of rocket fire, which had prompted the bombing of southern Beirut, marking a significant violation of the truce that has prevailed over the past four months.
Hezbollah’s leader, Naim Qassem, condemned Israel’s return to strikes in Beirut, declaring that such aggression must cease. He asserted the group’s denial of involvement in the rocket fire that Israel cited as a reason for the attack. Despite the ceasefire terms, Israel has undertaken numerous strikes on southern and eastern Lebanon, claiming to target Hezbollah military positions that infringe upon the truce.
According to the ceasefire agreement, Israel was expected to complete its troop withdrawal from Lebanon by February 18, having previously missed a January deadline. However, Israeli forces remain stationed in five locations deemed strategic, indicating a persistent military presence despite the ceasefire negotiations.
In conclusion, Israel’s targeted airstrike on a Hezbollah militant in southern Beirut highlights the fragility of the ongoing ceasefire. The Israeli military’s actions were justified by perceived threats from Hezbollah and Hamas. Additionally, Hezbollah’s leader has called for an end to these aggressive measures, asserting the group’s lack of involvement in provocations cited by Israel. This situation remains precarious, with Israeli forces maintaining strategic positions in Lebanon amidst ongoing tensions.
Original Source: www.france24.com
