Credited from: SCMP
Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon resulted in the death of 14 people, including two children and two women, and injured 37 others, according to the country's health ministry. This marks the deadliest day since the ceasefire came into effect on April 16, which has since been extended for three weeks. These strikes have intensified tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, with ongoing accusations from both sides of violating the fragile truce, according to Channel News Asia, BBC, and South China Morning Post.
The Israeli military stated it carried out "artillery and aerial strikes" targeting Hezbollah operatives and sites believed to be planning attacks against Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) personnel. This follows a series of drone strikes by Hezbollah, one of which resulted in the death of a 19-year-old Israeli soldier. The IDF reported that its forces were active in Lebanon and maintained the right to take necessary defensive actions against any threats, according to BBC and South China Morning Post.
Further complicating matters, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized Israel's commitment to act vigorously against Hezbollah, stating that their actions "disintegrating the ceasefire" would not go unchallenged. The military has issued evacuation warnings for several towns in southern Lebanon, urging residents to leave to avoid being caught in the crossfire of ongoing military operations, according to Channel News Asia and South China Morning Post.
The conflict has escalated dramatically since the war began on March 2, resulting in extensive casualties on both sides, including over 2,500 reported fatalities in Lebanon due to Israeli strikes. The continued hostilities highlight a precarious ceasefire, as both Israel and Hezbollah exchange accusations, further complicating the peace efforts mediated by outside parties, according to BBC and South China Morning Post.