Israel intercepts missiles from Lebanon amid ceasefire tensions
The Israeli armed forces intercepted three missiles launched from Lebanon. According to Tel Aviv, this constitutes a violation of the current ceasefire with Hezbollah—meanwhile, Lebanese media report on Israeli attacks on several towns in the south of the country.
What do you need to know?
- The Israeli armed forces reported intercepting three missiles launched from Lebanon on Saturday.
- Lebanese media conveyed that Israel shelled two Lebanese towns in the south of the country and attacked three others from the air.
- The attacks occurred despite the ceasefire in effect, which was implemented at the end of November 2024 in the conflict with Hezbollah.
Israel intercepted missiles fired from Lebanon and responded with fire
The Israeli army reported that air defence successfully intercepted the rockets over the border town of Metulla. This prevented any casualties. Hezbollah did not claim responsibility for launching these missiles.
Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the Lebanese government bears responsibility for any rockets launched from its territory. He added that he instructed the military to respond appropriately to the shelling.
According to Lebanese media, Israel conducted artillery shelling on two towns in the south of the country, and air attacks were carried out on three more towns.
- All security and military measures must be taken to show that Lebanon decides on matters of war and peace - declared Prime Minister Salam following Israel's shelling of towns in southern Lebanon.
What does the violation of the ceasefire mean?
Since the end of November 2024, a ceasefire has been in place, requiring the withdrawal of both Israeli troops and Hezbollah forces from southern Lebanon and the takeover of this area by the regular Lebanese army. Nonetheless, some Israeli units remained at several border posts. Israel's air force has repeatedly attacked targets on Lebanese territory, claiming these were operations against Hezbollah forces violating the ceasefire.
Last week, the governments of Israel and Lebanon agreed to begin negotiations regarding the delineation of the land border between the two countries. Currently, they are separated by the so-called
Blue Line, considered the actual border, but disputes over its exact course continue. Representatives from the USA and France are also participating in discussions on this topic, alongside the interested parties.
