Jerusalem: The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched strikes on Hezbollah-controlled military sites in southern Lebanon on Friday. The IDF stated that the targeted locations housed weapons and rocket launchers that posed a threat to Israel’s security.
Despite a November 27 truce agreement, which significantly reduced hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, periodic strikes have continued, escalating regional tensions.
Israel Justifies Attack on Hezbollah Targets
According to an official IDF statement:
“A short while ago, the IDF conducted intelligence-based strikes on military sites in southern Lebanon belonging to the Hezbollah terrorist organization in which weapons and rocket launchers were identified.”
The army also claimed these sites were a direct violation of the ceasefire agreement, which required Hezbollah to withdraw north of the Litani River, about 30 kilometers (20 miles) from the Israeli border.
Lebanese Media Confirms Strikes
Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) reported a series of Israeli airstrikes across multiple locations in the south, further highlighting the fragile nature of the ceasefire.
Ongoing Presence of Israeli Troops in Lebanon
The ceasefire had stipulated that Israel withdraw all forces from Lebanon by February 18 after missing a January deadline. However, Israel has maintained a presence in at least five strategic locations, intensifying disputes over territorial control.
With Hezbollah yet to dismantle its military infrastructure in the south, tensions remain high, raising concerns over renewed conflict in the region.
