By Lisa Nyambura
Israel launched airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon on Saturday, marking the first cross-border attack since a ceasefire deal came into effect in November.
The strikes followed the firing of rockets into Israel’s Metula region, although no injuries were reported.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he had ordered the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to “act forcefully against dozens of terror targets in Lebanon.”
The IDF confirmed that three rockets were intercepted.
No group has claimed responsibility for the rocket attack. Lebanon’s Prime Minister warned against the country being dragged into a new war.
The UN peacekeeping force (UNIFIL) expressed concern over a potential escalation and called for both sides to uphold the truce.
However, reports from Lebanon indicated Israeli artillery fire targeted several southern locations.
The ceasefire has been fragile. Israel continues to carry out airstrikes against Hezbollah targets, citing efforts to prevent rearmament.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces remain in five locations in southern Lebanon, which Lebanon’s government calls a violation of its sovereignty.
The situation increases pressure on Lebanon’s government amid international calls to curb Hezbollah’s power, the country struggles with economic and political instability.
