Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon result in two civilian fatalities

Israeli Defence Minister Reiterates Troop Presence in Southern Lebanon Amid Ongoing Ceasefire Talks

A drone strike in southern Lebanon on Wednesday resulted in at least two fatalities, despite a recent slowdown in fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. The incident occurred near the Tallat al-Dabsha road in the Nabatieh district, according to reports from Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA). Shortly after, Israeli forces targeted the outskirts of Yater in the Bint Jbeil area with artillery shells.

The attacks are the latest breach of a renewed ceasefire reached last week, following an agreement between the US and Iran aimed at ending the wider Middle East conflict. The Israeli military claimed to have targeted Hezbollah operatives in southern Lebanon on Wednesday.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that troops will not withdraw from Lebanese territory “even if there is an American demand.” He also mentioned that 200,000 residents who were forcibly displaced from southern Lebanon would not return, citing concerns over roadside bombs and attacks against Israeli soldiers. Katz emphasized that the military’s presence in Lebanon is necessary.

Al Jazeera reported that many people have returned to their homes in southern Lebanon, despite ongoing threats of attacks. In one town, Abbasiyeh, 80 percent of residents have returned, according to local officials. The town has access to basic services such as water, electricity, and medical care.

Talks between Israel and Lebanon are ongoing in Washington, DC, with a military-to-military component expected to be included. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated that his government plans to deploy the Lebanese army in southern Lebanon after Israeli forces withdraw. Reconstruction of damaged areas is also planned for after the withdrawal.

Hezbollah has condemned the Lebanon-Israel talks in the US, demanding the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon before any further discussions can take place.

Source: Al Jazeera