Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Friday have resulted in the deaths of at least 10 individuals, including six paramedics and a young Syrian girl, as reported by Lebanon’s Health Ministry. Despite a fragile ceasefire brokered by the US, both sides have continued their near-daily attacks. The initial strike targeted the village of Hanouiyeh, claiming the lives of four paramedics from Hezbollah’s Islamic Health Association. Another strike later in the day in the village of Deir Qanoun al Nahr resulted in the deaths of six people, including a Syrian child and two paramedics affiliated with Hezbollah’s ally, the Amal movement.
In addition to the fatalities, six individuals were injured, including three paramedics and a Syrian woman. The Health Ministry condemned the attacks, citing violations of international law. The Israeli military declined to comment on the incidents but has previously accused Hezbollah of using ambulances as a cover for militant activities without providing proof.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah persists despite the ceasefire, with Lebanon’s Health Ministry reporting a death toll exceeding 3,000 from the latest round of fighting. The recent escalation began on March 2 following rocket attacks by Hezbollah into northern Israel in response to US and Israeli offensives against Iran, a key supporter of the Lebanese group. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s army and General Security Directorate reaffirmed their commitment to professionalism and loyalty to the nation following sanctions imposed by the US Department of the Treasury on Hezbollah affiliates involved in obstructing disarmament efforts.
The ongoing war between Lebanese Hezbollah and Israel, stemming from the Gaza conflict and subsequent military actions, has exacted a heavy toll in lives lost and financial resources. The potential for the fragile ceasefire to collapse looms as the conflict persists and peace negotiations face challenges.
