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Israel launched its most extensive airstrikes on Lebanon since agreeing to a ceasefire with Hezbollah last week, leaving at least 11 people dead on Monday. The strikes followed the firing of projectiles by Hezbollah, which the group described as a warning against alleged Israeli violations of the truce. Reported by “apnews”
The projectiles, targeting Israeli positions in the disputed Shebaa Farms area, marked Hezbollah’s first direct attack on Israel since the ceasefire began on Wednesday. The fragile truce had aimed to end a year-long conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which had escalated as part of the broader regional fallout from the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
Ceasefire Under Strain
Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported that Israeli airstrikes in the southern villages of Haris and Tallousa killed nine civilians and injured four others. Additionally, a drone strike killed a motorcyclist, and another strike took the life of a Lebanese security officer, according to local media.
The Israeli military stated its actions were in response to Hezbollah’s projectile attacks and violations of the ceasefire. Israel claims the right to retaliate under the truce agreement. In contrast, Hezbollah has accused Israel of repeated breaches, including airstrikes and border incursions.
Lebanon’s parliament speaker, Nabih Berri, alleged that Israel had violated the truce over 50 times in recent days. The U.S., which helped broker the ceasefire alongside France, downplayed the incidents, with White House spokesman John Kirby stating, “Largely speaking, the ceasefire is holding.”
Under the agreement, Hezbollah is required to withdraw its fighters and infrastructure from southern Lebanon within 60 days, with Israeli troops also retreating to their borders.
U.S. Calls for Hostage Release
In the U.S., President-elect Donald Trump demanded the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, warning of severe consequences if they are not freed before he assumes office in January. Trump’s remarks raised speculation about potential U.S. military involvement in the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.
Gaza’s Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Meanwhile, in Gaza, worsening hunger and living conditions have raised alarm. The UN suspended aid deliveries due to looting risks, and international experts warned of looming famine in the northern region.
Israel reported allowing 56 trucks carrying essential supplies into Gaza on Sunday, an increase compared to previous months. However, the UN stated that much of the aid fails to reach those in need due to military restrictions, fighting, and robberies.
Displaced Palestinians, living in makeshift camps, described dire conditions. “Hunger and thirst killed us,” said Bilal Marouf, a displaced resident in Gaza City. Aid agencies and local bakeries struggle to meet demand as the cost of essential supplies continues to rise.
The humanitarian crisis underscores the severe impact of the conflict, which has left most of Gaza’s population displaced and reliant on diminishing international assistance.
