Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati condemned an Israeli airstrike on a Lebanese army center that killed one soldier and wounded 18 others on Sunday, describing it as a “direct bloody message” rejecting political solutions and efforts for a ceasefire.
The Israeli strike targeted the Al-Amariyeh checkpoint, located between Tyre and Naqoura, killing First Adjutant Diab Mohammed Jaafar. Mikati stressed that Israel’s continuous refusal to engage in a peaceful resolution highlights its rejection of ceasefire calls, including those made by the US and France in September.
He called on the international community and global institutions to take responsibility and act to prevent further escalation. Meanwhile, Hezbollah launched multiple rocket attacks on Israeli military positions in retaliation. According to Hezbollah, the group targeted Israeli army gatherings in Khiyam and Metula, using both rockets and drones, with the latter reportedly hitting their targets accurately.
The Israeli military reported that Hezbollah launched 160 projectiles towards Israel, setting off sirens across northern and central Israel, including Tel Aviv. The attack caused significant material damage and fires. Israel responded by warning residents of Beirut’s southern suburbs to evacuate, particularly targeting Bourj Al-Barajneh and Hadath.
These developments come as European Union Foreign Affairs Chief Josep Borrell visited Lebanon, calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. Borrell stressed the urgent need for international intervention, citing the growing humanitarian toll in Lebanon. The EU has pledged €200 million ($208.3 million) in aid to Lebanon’s military forces.
Borrell also reiterated the importance of a ceasefire and the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for the disarmament of Hezbollah. He emphasized that the situation in Lebanon is on the brink of collapse and underscored the importance of Lebanon electing a new president to stabilize the country amid the ongoing conflict.
The international community has also been critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza, with Borrell supporting the International Criminal Court’s investigation into potential war crimes committed by Israeli officials.