Israeli airstrikes hit southern Lebanon despite new US-backed withdrawal agreement

Israeli airstrikes hit southern Lebanon despite new US-backed withdrawal agreement

Israeli forces launched a new wave of military strikes across southern Lebanon on Thursday, targeting areas in Nabatieh, Bint Jbeil, and Tyre, despite a recently signed US-brokered agreement aimed at paving the way for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

According to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA), an Israeli drone strike hit an area near Ghandour Hospital in Nabatieh al-Fawqa, raising fresh concerns among residents already living under constant security threats. The extent of casualties or damage from the attack was not immediately confirmed.

In the Bint Jbeil district, Israeli fighter jets reportedly carried out an airstrike on the town of Braashit. While no official casualty figures were released, the strike added to growing fears that tensions in southern Lebanon remain far from over.

The situation further escalated as Israeli forces reportedly demolished several residential homes in the town of Hadatha. Another powerful explosion was also reported near the towns of Kounine and Tayri, although authorities have yet to provide additional details on the incident.

Meanwhile, reconnaissance drones were seen flying at low altitude over the city of Tyre and surrounding communities, increasing anxiety among local residents.

The Israeli military has not issued an official statement regarding Thursday’s operations. Israel has consistently maintained that its military actions are directed at Hezbollah positions and infrastructure. However, Lebanese officials continue to argue that many civilians have been caught in the crossfire during the ongoing conflict.

The renewed military activity comes only days after Lebanon and Israel signed a US-sponsored framework agreement on June 26. The agreement outlines a phased Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, beginning with two pilot zones, in an effort to reduce hostilities and restore stability along the border.

However, the framework does not specify a fixed timeline for the withdrawal. It also states that the Lebanese Army must gradually assume full security responsibilities in the evacuated areas while non-state armed groups, particularly Hezbollah, are expected to disarm.

Lebanese authorities have welcomed the agreement as an important first step toward restoring national sovereignty and allowing thousands of displaced families to safely return to their homes.

Hezbollah, however, has firmly rejected the arrangement, describing it as unacceptable and arguing that linking Israel’s withdrawal to the group’s disarmament crosses what it calls “red lines.”

According to the latest figures released by Lebanese authorities, Israeli military operations since March 2 have resulted in 4,298 deaths and 12,196 injuries across Lebanon.

As diplomatic efforts continue behind closed doors, the latest strikes highlight how fragile the situation remains. For many civilians living in southern Lebanon, the promise of peace is still overshadowed by the reality of ongoing military operations, uncertainty, and the daily fear of renewed violence. The coming weeks are expected to be crucial in determining whether the withdrawal agreement can translate into lasting stability or whether the region will face another escalation of conflict.

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