Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals and injuries to 37 people, according to Lebanon’s health ministry on Sunday. The Israeli military issued warnings for residents to evacuate seven towns beyond the previously designated “buffer zone” established before a ceasefire agreement that has not completely stopped hostilities.
Among the casualties on Sunday were two children and two women, as reported by the health ministry. Israel also confirmed the death of one of its soldiers as the fragile ceasefire faced further challenges.
A spokesperson for the Israeli military accused the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire and announced Israel’s intention to take action against it. Residents were advised to move north and west away from the towns located beyond the Litani River and the area in southern Lebanon occupied by Israeli troops, who continued military operations despite the ceasefire. The military disclosed that it targeted Hezbollah fighters, rocket launchers, and a weapons depot.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the priority of Israel’s security, soldiers, and communities during a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem. He stated that Israel would take decisive action in accordance with the agreed rules with the United States and Lebanon.
Hezbollah declared its refusal to halt attacks on Israeli troops in Lebanon and northern Israel, citing ongoing Israeli “ceasefire violations.” The group criticized diplomatic efforts as ineffective and questioned the effectiveness of Lebanese authorities in safeguarding the nation.
Earlier on Sunday, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for attacking Israeli troops in Lebanon and the rescue team sent to evacuate them. The Israeli military reported casualties among its soldiers due to the attacks. Additionally, Israel intercepted three drones before they entered Israeli territory following sirens in northern Israel.
The ceasefire, brokered by the U.S. and initiated on April 16 with an extension until mid-May, led to a notable decrease in hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. However, both sides continued to exchange fire and blamed each other for breaching the ceasefire terms.
Over 2,500 individuals have lost their lives in Israeli airstrikes since the recent conflict between Hezbollah and Israel began on March 2, shortly after U.S. and Israel’s strikes against Iran. Lebanon’s health ministry documented the deaths of 277 women, 177 children, and 100 medical personnel.
Hezbollah has not disclosed the total number of its fighters killed. The group conducted group funerals for numerous fighters in recent days. In response to Hezbollah attacks, two civilians have been killed in Israel, while 16 Israeli soldiers have lost their lives in Lebanon since the start of the conflict.