• Israel began airstrikes targeting Hezbollah and Hamas in Lebanon.
• Evacuation orders were issued for four villages ahead of the strikes.
• Airstrikes occurred before a key meeting on Hezbollah's disarmament.
• The attacks follow a ceasefire reached in 2024 after extensive conflict.
• Residents fled amid warnings and nearby drone activity.

On January 5, Israel’s air force launched targeted airstrikes in Lebanon, aimed at what it described as Hezbollah and Hamas "military infrastructure." These strikes focused on the villages of Hammara and Ain el-Tineh in eastern Lebanon, as well as Kfar Hatta and Aanan in the south, following evacuation orders for the surrounding areas, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.

The Israeli military spokesperson announced plans for these strikes just hours before they commenced, citing a warning issued on social media. An AFP photographer reported that families were evacuating from Kfar Hatta following drone activity in the area, highlighting the immediate impact of the warnings on local residents, according to Channel News Asia and Los Angeles Times.

These airstrikes align with a critical period for Lebanon as its army is preparing to brief the government on its disarmament mission regarding Hezbollah, which is expected to be a primary topic in an upcoming meeting. The Lebanese army started disarming Palestinian groups along the border in recent years, with hopes to complete the process by the end of 2025, according to Channel News Asia, Los Angeles Times, and Reuters.

Israel's strikes occur against a backdrop of complex historical conflicts, with a ceasefire established in late 2024 following a prolonged war that significantly impacted Hezbollah's leadership and capabilities. Reports indicate that since the ceasefire, Israel has conducted regular airstrikes targeting Hezbollah, although these have also resulted in civilian casualties, with the UN reporting 127 deaths, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.