The Israeli military launched airstrikes deep inside Lebanon on Monday, targeting sites of the militant Hezbollah group near the northeastern city of Baalbek. The strikes resulted in at least two fatalities, according to a Hezbollah official.
These strikes mark one of the most significant military actions in Lebanon since the Israel-Hamas conflict began over four months ago. The airstrikes occurred shortly after Hezbollah claimed to have shot down an Israeli drone over its stronghold in southern Lebanon.
In response, Israel launched retaliatory airstrikes targeting Hezbollah sites in the eastern Bekaa Valley. The exchange of fire between Israel and Hezbollah has escalated tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border, complicating efforts to negotiate a cease-fire in Gaza.
Israeli Air Force (Credits: world expo)
Hezbollah, while engaged in combat with Israel, has indicated a willingness to halt its attacks if a cease-fire is reached in Gaza. However, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has stated that any cease-fire agreement for Gaza will not apply to the northern front with Lebanon.
Western diplomats have proposed various measures to halt hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, including Hezbollah moving its forces away from the border and increased Lebanese army presence.
Lebanon’s caretaker Foreign Minister discussed a French proposal regarding the southern region, emphasizing Lebanon’s desire for a resolution that includes disputed territories captured by Israel in the 1967 war.
Hezbollah has expressed openness to considering these proposals but insists on a Gaza cease-fire before any deal in Lebanon is reached. The situation remains complex, with the potential for further escalation as negotiations continue between the involved parties.
