Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned two Israeli airstrikes on the southern city of Nabatieh on Tuesday evening, which resulted in 30 injuries. The strikes, which targeted areas including Nabatieh Al-Fawqa and Zawtar-Nabatieh Al-Fawqa road, marked the first violations since the ceasefire was extended on Nov. 27. The ceasefire, initially brokered with US support, is set to last until Feb. 18.
Mikati called the airstrikes a “flagrant violation” of Lebanon’s sovereignty and an infringement on the ceasefire agreement under UN Resolution 1701. He reached out to General Jasper Jeffers, head of the five-member committee overseeing the ceasefire, urging firm action to hold Israel accountable for the breach of international law.
In a response, the Israeli military claimed the airstrikes targeted Hezbollah-linked weapons shipments moving through the region, specifically a truck and vehicle carrying supplies. The Israeli army emphasized its commitment to maintaining security by dismantling Hezbollah’s infrastructure in southern Lebanon, even as it redeployed forces to allow for the Lebanese Army’s effective presence.
Despite these claims, Lebanese authorities and Hezbollah maintain that Israel’s actions contradict the ceasefire, with attacks on civilians and infrastructure throughout southern Lebanon. Tensions along the border have been rising, and the Lebanese army has made efforts to assert control over areas previously held by Hezbollah.
The Israeli forces have continued to challenge the Lebanese army’s presence in several key areas. On Wednesday, Israeli tanks moved towards Mays Al-Jabal, engaging in clashes with Lebanese troops. Meanwhile, video footage showed the Lebanese army inspecting former Hezbollah positions along the Litani River, suggesting heightened military coordination along the border.
Tensions also remain over Israel’s aggressive tactics, including the destruction of buildings and infrastructure in towns like Kfarkela, and the use of stun grenades and gunfire to disperse returning residents. Lebanon’s Ministry of Health reported additional casualties, particularly among civilians in towns like Yaroun.
Hezbollah’s parliamentary leader, Mohammad Raad, reiterated the group’s right to resist Israeli aggression. He criticized international indifference to Israel’s actions, while the Lebanese Kataeb party warned that these escalating violations could lead to further conflict in the region.
Lebanese leaders are urging for stronger action from the ceasefire committee and the international community to prevent further escalation and uphold peace agreements.