Israel-Hezbollah truce in jeopardy after rocket barrage kills 6

Israel’s army launched airstrikes on several locations in Lebanon on Saturday in retaliation for a rocket attack. This escalation comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with Israel also carrying out operations in Gaza with increasing intensity until Hamas releases the 59 hostages it holds.

The airstrikes in Lebanon resulted in the heaviest exchange of fire since the ceasefire with Hezbollah began nearly four months ago. Six people were killed in the attacks, sparking concerns about the stability of the ceasefire. Hezbollah denied responsibility for the rocket attack, stating its commitment to the truce.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed the army to respond forcefully against targets in Lebanon, where Hezbollah is based. The army targeted Hezbollah command centers and rocket launchers in response to the rocket attack on Metula, a town along the border with Lebanon. Despite the airstrikes, Hezbollah denied involvement in the attack.

The retaliation airstrikes resulted in casualties in Lebanon, with five people, including a child, killed in the southern village of Touline. Another strike in Tyre killed one person, and a village along the border with Syria was also targeted. Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam urged the military to take necessary measures in the south while emphasizing a desire to avoid a return to war.

The exchange of fire between Israel and Lebanon comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, with Israel also conducting operations in Gaza to pressure Hamas to release the hostages it holds. The airstrikes in Gaza have resulted in civilian casualties, drawing condemnation from the international community.

In Israel, tensions have also been heightened by the government’s decision to fire the head of the Shin Bet internal security service, sparking protests and calls for new elections. The Supreme Court has ordered a temporary halt to the dismissal of Ronen Bar, highlighting the political turmoil within Israel.

As the situation continues to unfold in the region, the international community is closely monitoring developments and urging all parties to de-escalate tensions. The fragile ceasefire agreements and ongoing hostilities underscore the need for diplomatic efforts to prevent further violence and loss of life in the region.