
The Israeli military launched a series of airstrikes overnight targeting Hezbollah facilities in the Bekaa Valley and along the Syrian-Lebanese border, according to a statement released by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) on Friday. The strikes were aimed at weapons development sites and arms smuggling infrastructure, key components of Hezbollah’s military activities in the region.
The IDF reported that the targets included a facility used for underground weapons development and another linked to the smuggling of arms into Lebanon. These operations were part of Israel’s broader efforts to curb Hezbollah’s military capabilities and prevent the transfer of weaponry to the militant group.
In addition to the airstrikes, Israel also confirmed on Thursday that it had intercepted a surveillance drone launched by Hezbollah. Israeli officials described the drone incident as a “breach of the ceasefire agreement” established between Israel and Hezbollah following a deadly conflict that erupted in late 2023, sparked by the ongoing Gaza war.
The ceasefire, brokered in late November 2023, had led to the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon. Under the terms of the agreement, Hezbollah and Israel agreed to a cessation of hostilities, with a provision for Israeli forces to pull out by January 26, 2024. However, the United States confirmed that the ceasefire would be extended until February 18, 2024, to allow for further diplomatic discussions and stabilization efforts.
Despite the ceasefire, tensions have remained high, and Israel has carried out several airstrikes in Lebanese territory. These strikes have resulted in the deaths and injuries of over 100 people in various incidents, including a drone strike on Thursday in the southern Lebanese town of Majdal Selm that left at least five people injured.
The situation remains precarious as both sides continue to navigate the complexities of the ceasefire, with the international community calling for renewed efforts to prevent further escalation in the volatile region.
Sources By Agencies