Israel strikes southern Lebanon after US-Iran ceasefire

Israel strikes southern Lebanon after US-Iran ceasefire

Israeli forces launched a series of aerial attacks in southern Lebanon on Wednesday morning, signaling that the US-Iran ceasefire deal does not extend to the region. The agreement, announced hours earlier, was mediated by Pakistan, yet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed claims that it would halt the conflict with Hezbollah.

Over 1,500 people have been killed in Lebanon, including 130 children, while more than 1.2 million residents—roughly one in five of the population—have been forced to flee their homes. The majority of those displaced are from Shia Muslim communities in southern Lebanon, the eastern Bekaa Valley, and Beirut’s southern suburbs, areas where Hezbollah exerts considerable influence.

Casualties and Displacement

Villages near the border have been razed as Israeli troops aim to establish a security buffer zone. This strategy targets Hezbollah’s infrastructure, pushing its fighters further back. Concerns have emerged that some regions might remain under occupation even after the war concludes, with residents fearing they could be displaced permanently.

Conflict Context

The ceasefire agreement, which followed a war initiated in late February between the US and Israel against Iran, prompted the Lebanese presidency to commit to “efforts to include Lebanon in regional peace.” However, Hezbollah has yet to issue an official statement, though it has not claimed responsibility for recent strikes.

Hezbollah’s Role and Criticism

Despite the ceasefire, the conflict has reignited with Hezbollah launching rockets at Israel in retaliation for the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during the war’s opening phase. The group also responded to frequent Israeli air raids. While Hezbollah faces strong criticism for involving Lebanon in the conflict and supporting Iran, it still maintains significant support among Shia communities.

Displacement Crisis Effects

The war has intensified the displacement crisis, straining Lebanon’s already fragile situation. Schools have been converted into shelters, and many families now reside in makeshift tents or vehicles. This influx has heightened sectarian tensions, as communities worry about becoming targets of Israeli attacks.

Diplomatic Efforts

Following the 2024 ceasefire, the Lebanese government proposed disarming Hezbollah, a group formed in the 1980s during Israel’s occupation of Lebanon in the 15-year civil war. However, Hezbollah has refused to engage in discussions about its weapons. President Joseph Aoun, a former army commander, ruled out military action to avoid escalating divisions. In response to recent escalations, his administration made a historic move to negotiate directly with Israel, despite the lack of diplomatic ties.