Israel escalates attacks in Lebanon amid extended ceasefire agreement

Israeli Forces Kill Six Hezbollah Fighters in Exchange of Fire

A clash between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters has resulted in the deaths of six Hezbollah fighters in Bint Jbeil, southern Lebanon. The incident occurred hours after a ceasefire extension was announced for an additional three weeks.

According to reports, two people were also killed in an Israeli air strike in Touline, southern Lebanon. The Lebanese Health Ministry confirmed that the total number of casualties since the current round of fighting began on March 2 has risen to 2,491 deaths and 7,719 injuries.

Israeli forces have maintained a presence in southern Lebanon, establishing a “yellow line” similar to one in the Gaza Strip. Several people were wounded in an Israeli artillery attack on Yater, and a forced evacuation order was issued for Deir Aames.

Hezbollah claimed that it had used a missile to shoot down an Israeli drone in southern Lebanon. Al Jazeera reported that ongoing military activity continues despite the truce, with air strikes, drone strikes, home demolitions, and continued occupation of territory.

In response to the attacks, Hezbollah dismissed the ceasefire extension as “meaningless.” The group stated that every Israeli attack gives them the right to retaliate. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintained that Israel has the freedom to act against any threat, while accusing Hezbollah of trying to sabotage the ceasefire deal.

The United Nations Secretary-General welcomed the extension of the ceasefire and urged all parties to respect the cessation of hostilities and comply with international law.

Source: Al Jazeera