Israeli forces launched new airstrikes in southern Lebanon, injuring several people, despite renewed criticism from President Donald Trump over Israel’s actions in the country.
The strikes, which targeted areas including Mansouri and Aaziyyeh, came after Israel’s military reported that five soldiers were injured in a drone attack by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah. Israeli jets also attacked Nabatieh al-Fawqa and Kfar Tebnit, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency.
Lebanon Conflict Escalation
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated since the US-Iran agreement was announced on Sunday, with both sides carrying out attacks against each other. The agreement, which aims to end the war between the US, Iran, and Israel, includes Lebanon, according to mediator Pakistan.
President Trump criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s actions in Lebanon, saying he needed to be “more responsible” and that the conflict had been going on “too long” with “too many people being killed”. Trump also warned that without US support, Israel would not exist, and that he had a “great relationship” with Netanyahu.
International Reactions and Implications
The international community is watching the situation closely, with Iran’s top military command warning Israel of a “harsh response” if it does not end its “malice” in southern Lebanon. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said his country was pursuing an “independent path” in negotiations with Israel, while Hezbollah’s leader, Naim Qassem, declared the US-Iran agreement a “great victory” and urged Lebanon to benefit from the situation.
The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, with over 3,800 people killed in Lebanon, according to the country’s health ministry. Israeli authorities report that 30 soldiers and four civilians have been killed on both sides of the border. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is calling for a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
