The Israeli Defence Forces on Saturday stated that the fresh strikes in Lebanon were a direct response to Hezbollah's repeated and ongoing violations of the ceasefire agreement. The military emphasized its commitment to protecting Israeli civilians and forces.
Hezbollah Launches Over 50 Strikes
In a post on X, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) claimed that Hezbollah launched more than 50 attacks on Israeli forces operating in southern Lebanon. The IAF stated that these actions constitute repeated violations of the ceasefire agreement by the terrorist organization Hezbollah. The IDF will not tolerate harm to Israeli civilians or its forces and will respond forcefully to any use of force against them.
Retaliatory Strikes on Terrorist Infrastructure
The IAF reported that in retaliation, it struck dozens of terrorist infrastructures and terrorists in overnight strikes. Targets included rocket launch positions, weapons storage facilities, and command centers in southern Lebanon. The IDF affirmed its adherence to the ceasefire agreement while continuing actions to remove any threat to the State of Israel and its forces.
Hezbollah's Response
On the other hand, Hezbollah issued a statement claiming it attacked Israeli forces attempting to advance in southern Lebanon. According to the Times of Israel, Hezbollah said it has adhered to the ceasefire since Friday afternoon. The group stated that Israeli troops again attempted to capture the Ali Taher ridge near Nabatieh during an overnight raid. Hezbollah affirmed its commitment to the ceasefire but declared it will not tolerate any attempt by the enemy to seize land and expand its occupation.
Casualties and Damage
The death toll from the ongoing Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon's Nabatieh district has risen to 16 on Saturday. The Times of Israel, citing Lebanon's civil defense agency, reported that 12 people have been injured and hospitalized. Additionally, seven people were killed and 13 injured in an Israeli airstrike in the town of Qennarit near Sidon. The situation remains tense as peace hangs by a precipice amid the recently inked memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States, and strikes on Lebanon may further complicate the process.
