Lebanese Army Orders Soldiers to Act After Post Comes Under Israeli Fire

Lebanese Army Blames Israel for Attack Near Observation Post

A low-altitude Israeli drone was spotted flying overhead near an observation post being constructed in the Marjayoun area, prompting Lebanon’s army to issue orders to reinforce the post and return fire. The incident occurred on Tuesday, according to a statement released by the Lebanese military.

The attack is part of a pattern of Israeli military activity in southern Lebanon, where Israel has occupied five positions despite a November 2024 ceasefire aimed at ending hostilities with Lebanon-based Hezbollah. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the incident.

Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi warned of potential consequences for his country if conflict breaks out between the United States and Iran, which is allied with Hezbollah. He stated that there are signs Israel could carry out intense strikes in Lebanon “in the event of an escalation”.

The Lebanese government has been working to disarm Hezbollah, a group that was weakened in the 2024 war with Israel. The army has used its limited resources to dismantle Hezbollah facilities and tunnels, and confiscate its weapons. However, Israel has called these efforts “far from sufficient” and continued its regular strikes.

In recent months, there have been reports of increased Israeli attacks on Lebanon, including a strike on a Hezbollah target in eastern Lebanon that killed at least 12 people, including civilians. The US embassy in Beirut has ordered the departure of all non-emergency personnel amid concerns about a potential United States-Iran confrontation.

Source: Al Jazeera