The Lebanese army announced that two officers and a soldier were killed in an Israeli attack targeting a military vehicle in the south of the country. The attack took place on the road between Khardali and Nebatiye.
The Israeli army claimed that the targeted vehicle was "moving suspiciously" in an active conflict zone. The statement noted that the attack was part of operations against Hezbollah, not the Lebanese army, and that the incident is under investigation.
New Tensions Between the Parties
Hezbollah described the attack as a "disgusting crime." The group accused the Lebanese government of fully submitting to demands in Washington, thereby exposing the country to bloodshed.
The Lebanese army said the "deliberate and repeated" nature of the attacks undermines efforts for a resolution. President Joseph Aoun also described the attack as a clear violation of Lebanese sovereignty.
This development came shortly after the two countries announced a conditional ceasefire agreement during talks held in the US. However, it is known that the ceasefire has never been fully implemented in practice, with ongoing mutual accusations of violations.
Ceasefire Remains on Paper
The ceasefire that came into effect in April was expected to end the hostilities. Nevertheless, Israel and Hezbollah have repeatedly accused each other of ceasefire violations.
The new conditional arrangement announced this week in Washington called for Hezbollah to stop firing, Israel to withdraw from areas near the Lebanese border, and the Lebanese army to establish full control over certain "pilot zones." Hezbollah rejected the agreement, demanding Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanese territory.
Israel Issues Evacuation Warnings
On the day of the attack, Israel issued new evacuation warnings for five villages in southern and eastern Lebanon. Residents were instructed to move north of the Zahrani River.
Lebanese state media reported a series of additional Israeli attacks in the south. Hezbollah also announced it targeted Israeli soldiers.
Expanding Toll of the Conflict
Lebanon has been drawn into a broader regional war following Hezbollah’s attack on Israel on March 2. Israel responded with airstrikes and ground operations; the death toll has reportedly exceeded 3,500.
Iran argues that Lebanon should be included in the broader war agreement being negotiated with the US. Joseph Aoun, in an interview with CNN, called on Iran not to interfere in Lebanon’s internal affairs and stated that his country will not be used as a bargaining chip.
Aoun also emphasized that the majority of the Lebanese people are weary of the war.
