Israel launches deadly strikes in Lebanon amid ongoing diplomatic efforts

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Lebanese Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah has stated that negotiating with Israel is not an option, warning of internal division within Lebanon. The comments come as Israel continues its military operations in southern Lebanon, despite recent diplomatic efforts to establish direct talks between the two countries.

According to reports from Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency (NNA), at least 13 people were killed in Wednesday’s attacks, which targeted towns across southern Lebanon. The NNA also reported that five more people were killed in Ansariyeh and four in Qadmus. In addition, Israel launched strikes south of Beirut, hitting two vehicles in Saadiyat and on a coastal highway in Jiyeh.

Residents in the affected areas expressed frustration with the Lebanese government’s decision to meet with Israeli envoys, citing concerns that the November 2024 ceasefire agreement had not been fully implemented. The meeting was hosted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, marking the first direct contact between Lebanon and Israel in decades.

Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah criticized the Lebanese government for its handling of the situation, stating that it has “squandered Lebanon’s political and military strength” by withdrawing its army from the south. He also accused the government of “inciting internal division” in the country.

The Israeli military had previously issued an evacuation order to residents in the south, and attacks continued to hit various towns across southern Lebanon, including Baraachit, Souaneh, Babliyeh, Seddiqine, Nabatieh El Faouqa, and areas along the Litani River. The outskirts of Bint Jbeil were also struck by shelling.

The situation remains tense in Lebanon, with many residents expressing anger and frustration over the ongoing conflict.

Source: Al Jazeera