Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Sunday marked escalating tensions, resulting in casualties and rising conflict. Multiple raids targeted civilian areas, with at least three deaths reported. Israeli officials reiterated a commitment to respond to Lebanese gunfire. Continued violations of the ceasefire complicate the situation further, with numerous incidents recorded since late November.
On Sunday, Israeli forces launched a fresh series of airstrikes on southern Lebanon, marking the fifth round within a 24-hour period as tensions along the border escalate. Reports indicate that three Apache helicopters targeted three prefabricated houses in Kefarkla, including one located near the Fatima Gate, while another helicopter dropped four sound bombs. Fortunately, there have been no reported casualties from this particular strike.
Earlier on the same day, Israeli military actions focused on civilian houses in Ainata, resulting in the deaths of two individuals according to the Ministry of Public Health. Additionally, an attack was reported in Yaroun village. In the morning hours, an Israeli drone strike in Meiss El Jabal also resulted in one death, while another airstrike in Yater reportedly caused one fatality and one injury, as stated by Lebanese officials.
In response to these incidents, Israel’s Defense Minister emphasized the government’s resolve, stating that, “We will not allow gunfire from Lebanon and will respond forcefully to any breach of the ceasefire.” He confirmed that directives had been issued to the military to retaliate against any gunfire coming from Lebanon towards the Avivim region.
Israeli military spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, reported on X that a parked, unoccupied vehicle in Avivim had been fired upon, with no injuries sustained. He noted that this incident involved apparent gunfire from within Lebanon, prompting the Israel Defense Forces to conduct sweeps in the vicinity, underscoring that such fire violations breach the understandings between the two nations.
Since the ceasefire took effect on November 27, 2024, Israeli forces have committed over 1,500 violations of its terms, including airstrikes and artillery shelling. Despite the official conclusion of hostilities nearly four months ago, Israel maintains a presence in five strategic hills without any declared plan to withdraw, further complicating the already tense situation.
The ongoing conflict has seen Israel intensifying its airstrikes in southern Lebanon, which has resulted in casualties and heightened tensions along the border. With over 1,500 ceasefire violations recorded since late November 2024, the conflict persists amidst Israel’s continued military presence in contested territories. Such actions underline the fragility of the ceasefire and the volatility of the region.
Original Source: shafaq.com
