News Screen – The escalation of the conflict in South Lebanon has again claimed lives. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that at least 18 people were killed and 33 others injured as a result of a series of Israeli airstrikes that took place from Thursday night to Friday morning.
According to Lebanese health authorities, the attacks hit at least 10 villages and towns in the country’s southern region. The high intensity of the attacks is said to have hampered the process of evacuating victims from the affected locations.
This wave of attacks is the deadliest incident since the United States and Iran reached an agreement to end the wider conflict in the Middle East region earlier this week.
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On the other hand, the Israeli military confirmed that four of its personnel were killed in fighting in South Lebanon. One of the victims announced was Lieutenant Colonel Dor Gedalia Ben Simhon.
In addition, a reserve officer reportedly suffered serious injuries from the explosive drone attack, while several other soldiers suffered minor injuries.
The Israeli military stated that the military operation carried out was a response to alleged ceasefire violations by Hezbollah. Throughout the night and into the morning, Israeli troops are said to have targeted a number of locations claimed to be the group’s infrastructure and positions in South Lebanon.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah admitted to launching rocket and mortar attacks on Israeli troops around the Ali al-Taher hills, a strategic area overlooking Nabatieh City. The group also claimed to have attacked Israeli armored vehicles moving towards the area.
Hezbollah said clashes were still ongoing at several points, including areas near Arnoun and Kfar Tibnit which are around Nabatieh.
This latest development shows that the security situation on the Lebanon-Israel border remains very fragile despite diplomatic efforts and an agreement to end the conflict. It is feared that ongoing fighting could worsen regional stability and increase the number of casualties on both sides.
A number of United States officials previously expressed concerns about the continuation of military operations in Lebanon. Washington also continues to encourage all parties to exercise restraint and respect the agreements that have been reached to prevent the spread of conflict in the Middle East.***
Source: AFP
