Lebanon: 31 killed, 40 hurt as Israel intensifies strikes on Hezbollah

Lebanon’s health ministry reported at least 31 deaths and 40 injuries after Israeli airstrikes struck southern and eastern regions, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure and combatants. The strikes killed 14 people in Burj al-Shamali, including two children and three women, marking some of the heaviest bombardment since an April 16 truce. Additional deaths were reported in Maarakeh and other communities, with Hezbollah retaliating using drones, rockets, and artillery against advancing Israeli forces near Zawtar al-Sharqiya. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to escalate military operations in Lebanon, deploying ground forces to seize dominant terrain and fortify a security zone in northern Israel. He emphasized countering Hezbollah’s use of fiber-optic drones capable of bypassing Israeli defenses. The renewed offensive follows Israel’s March resumption of strikes aimed at halting Hezbollah attacks on northern Israel, despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire extended in mid-May. Lebanon claimed inclusion in the initial U.S.-Israel ceasefire deal with Iran in April, though Israel denied this. The U.S. mediated talks in Washington that extended the truce by 45 days, but fighting has persisted. Hezbollah’s involvement began shortly after the October 2023 Israel-Hamas war, with sporadic clashes continuing despite ceasefire attempts. The escalation coincides with U.S. strikes on Iranian missile sites and mining boats in southern Iran, deepening regional tensions. Netanyahu’s cabinet meeting underscored Israel’s focus on both ground operations and technological solutions to neutralize drone threats. The conflict remains volatile, with no clear path to a lasting resolution despite diplomatic efforts.