Israel launches new air attacks in southern Lebanon despite US‑brokered ceasefire
A US‑mediated framework agreement was signed on Friday between Israel and Lebanon, promising a gradual Israeli withdrawal from the south and a roadmap toward a "sustainable peace". The pact was welcomed by both governments, but fighting continued.
On Sunday the Lebanese National News Agency reported that an Israeli warplane carried out an air strike in the Deir Seryan–Taybeh area and that a missile was dropped near the town of Shebaa. The Israeli army later said Captain David Hazutt was killed in a gunfight with Hezbollah fighters. A further Israeli drone strike was conducted over southern Lebanon on Saturday.
On Monday, Israeli aircraft bombed the region between Qandara and Deir Sirian in the Nabatiya province, and artillery fire hit the town of Hadatha in Bid Jbeil. No casualties were reported from these attacks.
Lebanese health officials say the conflict that began on 2 March has caused at least 4,247 deaths, 12,195 injuries and displaced more than one million people. Iranian officials condemned the agreement, calling it a "document of shame" and accusing Israel of using diplomacy to expand its territory. Hezbollah labelled the deal a violation of Lebanese sovereignty.
The latest strikes illustrate the fragility of the cease‑fire and the risk that the diplomatic effort could unravel despite US involvement.