Israel conducted an airstrike in Beirut, marking the first attack since the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah last month. The strike targeted a commander of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan force in the city’s southern suburbs. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the operation. While Israeli media reported the commander’s death, there was no immediate confirmation from either the Israeli military or Hezbollah.
The ceasefire in Lebanon has played a crucial role in a broader truce between the U.S. and Iran, with a cessation of Israeli strikes in Lebanon being a significant Iranian demand. Despite talks between Israel and Lebanon, tensions persist, with Israeli troops present in areas south of the Litani River, and continued strikes in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah, an ally of Iran, retaliated by launching armed drones and firing at Israeli soldiers. Israel expanded its zone of action by calling for the evacuation of villages north of the Litani River on the same day.
Official discussions between Israel and Lebanon have primarily occurred at the ambassadorial level. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam mentioned that high-level meetings with Israel were premature, emphasizing the importance of solidifying the ceasefire before any negotiations.
President Donald Trump extended the ceasefire and expressed optimism about a potential peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon. Salam clarified that Lebanon’s priority is peace, not normalization with Israel. President Aoun stressed the necessity of a security agreement and a halt to Israeli attacks before considering a meeting with Netanyahu.
Israel’s establishment of a self-declared security zone in southern Lebanon aims to safeguard northern Israel from Hezbollah threats. The conflict has led to casualties on both sides, with the Lebanese Health Ministry reporting over 2,700 deaths since the war began.