Tensions have surged again in the region after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to “vigorously attack Hezbollah targets” in Lebanon.
The directive comes amid renewed cross-border strikes and rising casualties despite a recently extended ceasefire.
Benjamin Netanyahu instructed the Israeli military to intensify strikes on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, just days after a ceasefire extension agreement was reached.
The order marked a sharp escalation, triggering fresh Israeli attacks shortly after the directive was issued.
Renewed strikes in Southern Lebanon
Following the order, Israeli air and ground strikes hit multiple locations in southern Lebanon.
Lebanon’s health ministry reported at least six deaths in separate attacks on Saturday, according to Agence-France-Presse.
In Yohmor al-Shaqeef, four people were killed when a truck and motorbike were struck. Another two died in Safad al-Battikh, while 17 others were injured.
Israel says Hezbollah members targeted
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it “eliminated” several Hezbollah members, claiming they were transporting weapons or operating in combat roles.
According to the military, targets included a vehicle loaded with weapons and individuals on motorcycles in southern Lebanon.
The IDF also reported additional strikes in the Litani area, saying those targeted posed a threat to Israeli troops operating in the region.
Hezbollah retaliation and cross-border clashes
Hezbollah responded by targeting an Israeli army vehicle in southern Lebanon, according to AFP reports.
The exchange highlights ongoing cross-border hostilities that continue despite the ceasefire framework.
The truce, extended earlier this week after talks in Washington, has reduced violence but not fully halted clashes.
The Israeli military said it struck Hezbollah infrastructure used for military purposes across southern Lebanon.
It also confirmed it would continue operations “decisively” against threats to Israeli civilians and soldiers, under government directives.
Israel continues to maintain a presence in parts of southern Lebanon and has carried out large-scale demolitions in the region.
Strikes on journalists condemned
International concern has also grown after a journalist was killed in earlier Israeli strikes in Lebanon.
The Media Freedom Coalition, including the UK and Finland, condemned violence against journalists and called for press safety in conflict zones.
Lebanese officials said journalist Amal Khalil and photographer Zeinab Faraj were hit while taking shelter after an initial strike.
The Israeli military has denied deliberately targeting journalists.
