Israeli Airstrikes in Southern Lebanon Lead to Civilian Casualties

Early Monday, Israeli airstrikes targeted a village in southern Lebanon, resulting in at least 12 fatalities and multiple injuries, including children, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry. These strikes have escalated tensions between Israel and Hezbollah despite a truce agreed upon over two months ago.

Reports indicate that one airstrike hit a building, causing the deaths of 11 individuals, including two children and four women. Another strike on a car killed a paramedic from the Lebanese Islamic Risala Scout Association and injured two others. Hospital sources in Nabatiyeh confirmed that Mustafa Farhat, an 8-year-old injured during the airstrike, is currently receiving treatment alongside his grandmother.

The Israeli military stated that the airstrikes were in retaliation for two Hezbollah drone attacks targeting Israeli troops from the area. They claim the strikes aimed at a Hezbollah operative attempting to transport weapons to Kfar Rumman. Hezbollah has not officially confirmed the attacks or released any statements regarding the increased strikes near Nabatiyeh.

Residents like Fouad Chakaron and Saleh Medlej have expressed their distress over the ongoing shelling. Chakaron lamented the shelling, saying the attacks have now reached the center of the village. Despite the destruction, Medlej vowed to remain in his hometown. The Israeli military issued a warning for evacuation in the village of Deir al-Zahrani, but there were no reports of casualties following a subsequent strike.

In a separate incident, Israeli troops near Beaufort castle were targeted by gunfire from a Hezbollah member, leading to minor wounds for two soldiers. The troops responded, killing the perpetrator. Sunday’s airstrikes in southern Lebanon resulted in seven fatalities and the destruction of an empty hospital. These occurred following the release of five Lebanese prisoners by Israel, part of a larger exchange deal.

The existing U.S.-brokered truce between Israel and Hezbollah has faced repeated breaches, with continuing airstrikes on Lebanon and drone attacks on Israeli forces. While a framework deal was signed between Lebanon and Israel in June for Israeli withdrawal and Hezbollah disarmament, progress has been minimal. Hezbollah maintains its armament across the territory north of the Litani River, with Israeli officials demanding disarmament nationwide.

Kfar Rumman’s mayor, Abdullah Farhat, condemned the destruction, labeling the events as a “massacre.” He criticized the framework agreement, claiming the local populace bears the brunt amidst ongoing hostilities.

Associated Press writer Bassem Mroue from Beirut offered additional insights.