The Israeli military has launched fresh strikes across southern Lebanon, escalating tensions with Hezbollah despite an ongoing ceasefire framework. The latest attacks came after Hezbollah launched a drone toward Israeli forces, according to the Israeli military.
Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported that Israeli strikes late Friday killed at least three people and wounded 23 others. The attacks reportedly hit several locations in the southern Tyre and Nabatieh regions, as well as Lebanon’s eastern Bekaa Valley. The ministry said women, children and medical workers were among those injured.
The renewed violence follows a sharp deterioration along the Israel-Lebanon border in recent weeks. Israel has continued military operations against Hezbollah positions, while the Iran-backed group has carried out drone attacks against Israeli troops and positions.
A major focus of the fighting has been the strategic Ali al-Taher ridge near Nabatieh. Israel’s military said it recently gained “operational control” of the area and cleared Hezbollah fighters from underground tunnels believed to have been used for military purposes. The extent of Israel’s control remains disputed, with Lebanese officials questioning how far Israeli forces have advanced.
The latest strikes are raising renewed fears of a broader escalation and further displacement of civilians in southern Lebanon. Reuters reported that more than 340,000 people remain displaced in southern Lebanon, while continued damage to homes and public infrastructure is complicating efforts for residents to return.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides continuing to accuse the other of violating arrangements intended to reduce hostilities. Further Israeli strikes or Hezbollah retaliation could increase pressure on ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a more durable ceasefire.