Intensifying Tensions: Israel’s strikes in Lebanon challenge fragile ceasefire

Israel launched its most extensive airstrikes across Lebanon since a ceasefire with Hezbollah was brokered last week, leaving at least 11 dead on Monday. The escalation occurred after Hezbollah fired projectiles at Israeli positions, citing alleged violations of the truce by Israel.

This marks the first Hezbollah attack on Israeli forces since the 60-day ceasefire took effect last Wednesday, aimed at ending over a year of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. The ceasefire is part of a broader attempt to stabilize the region amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported that Israeli airstrikes on Haris and Tallousa, southern villages near the border, claimed nine lives and left several injured. Earlier, Lebanese media confirmed an Israeli drone strike killed one individual on a motorcycle, and artillery fire resulted in the death of a Lebanese corporal.

The Israeli military described the airstrikes as targeting Hezbollah fighters and infrastructure after the group launched two projectiles toward Mount Dov, a disputed area near Shebaa Farms. While the projectiles caused no casualties, Hezbollah stated they were a “defensive response” to what it termed repeated Israeli violations of the ceasefire.

Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri accused Israel of breaching the ceasefire more than 50 times in recent days. These alleged violations include airstrikes, home demolitions near the border, and airspace incursions.

The U.S. and France, which helped broker the truce, downplayed the significance of Israel’s actions, with U.S. National Security Spokesman John Kirby asserting that the ceasefire is “largely holding.”

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Meanwhile, Gaza faces mounting hunger as food supplies dwindle. The U.N. suspended aid deliveries from the primary crossing into Gaza due to threats of armed looting, further worsening conditions for displaced Palestinians.

Israeli forces, citing ongoing offensives against Hamas, have isolated northern Gaza, leaving hundreds of thousands in makeshift camps. Although Israel reported an increase in humanitarian aid deliveries in November, access remains limited due to fighting and security concerns.

Palestinians, like Bilal Marouf from Gaza City, recount harrowing experiences of fleeing bombings with nothing but the clothes on their backs. “Hunger and thirst killed us. We have no money, no blankets, no shelter,” he shared near his tent.

As tensions escalate in both Lebanon and Gaza, the region’s fragile peace faces immense challenges, threatening to unravel progress toward stability.